Nikon Z-series photographers now have a new lens to choose from in the form of the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S that’s announced by Nikon India. The new lens packs superior optical performance along with added portability, agility, and operability.
Featuring the new Z-mount system that fully utilises short flange focal distance, the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S is part of the S-Line lenses and is a compact and highly practical lens for landscape and cityscape photography. Covering a dynamic ultra-wide angle of 14mm to a wide angle of 30mm with a constant maximum aperture of f/4 throughout the range, the lens is versatile for capturing a variety of scenes without the need for a lens change. Additionally, the use of Nikon's exclusive coating technologies, including Nano Crystal Coat, effectively suppresses ghost and flare, contributing to clear photos and videos. The lens achieves rendering performance that will change the perception of ultra-wide-angle zoom lenses with a maximum aperture of f/4.
The lens is the world's first FX-format lens to support direct filter attachment despite starting at a 14 mm focal length. This allows users to conveniently enjoy the effects of different filters such as polarising filters and neutral density filters, which cannot be used with conventional ultra-wide-angle lenses. The support for an 82-mm-diameter filter attachment to its small and nearly flat front lens element also allows for shooting in more active situations, in addition to the dust- and drip-resistance considered in the design of the lens.
With a button-less retractable mechanism to achieve greater mobility while preserving optical performance, the smaller, more portable size also enables quick shooting. Furthermore, superior operability is also key, with the ability to designate three functions to the control ring to facilitate comfortable still and movie shooting.
NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S primary features
Uncompromised dynamic image quality in any setting: From shooting the city skyline to capturing natural colours in florals, the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S promises uncompromised image quality at any focal length. With four Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements and four aspherical lens elements, the lens packs a total of 14 elements in 9 groups for superior optical performance. The full potential of high-pixel-count digital cameras such as the Z 7 with its 45.7 effective megapixels is realised, ideal for photographers looking for edge-to-edge resolution even at maximum aperture levels – achieving higher resolution from centre to peripheral than other similar lenses.
For the photographer composing a silhouette image in backlight, Nano Crystal Coat ensures a high tolerance for backlighting, effectively reducing ghost and flare effects to achieve the intended imaging. In addition, the lens allows for the same maximum f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range. The highest creativity can now be expressed through deliberate exposure control.
Equipped with a single lens, photographers can capture a wide variety of scenery and subjects at no added expense. With a focal-length range covering an ultra-wide-angle 14mm (angle of view: 114°), to a wide angle of 30mm, the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S expands the wide-angle range by 2mm over the conventional 16mm (angle of view: 107°) for added flexibility and versatility in both photography and videography.
Superb operability for daily use: Travel across the country to capture a wide variety of shots with ease; the NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S is the world’s first2 filter-attachable FX-format compatible ultra-wide-angle 14mm lens, made possible with effective distortion compensation within the camera. Despite having ultra-wide angle capabilities, the front lens element is nearly flat, so that it can be protected by attaching an 82-mm-diameter lens hood or filter, allowing users to shoot as if using a standard lens, and allowing for protection against sandy terrains.
The practicality of the lens does not stop there; the ultra-wide angle lens is packed into a compact size through a retractable system that ensures outstanding portability, while maintaining its high-standard optical performance. A simple operation of the zoom ring with a “button-less” structure design unlocks the lens, enabling quicker shooting while on the move than with conventional models.
Assignable camera settings from Focus (M/A), Aperture and Exposure Compensation allow for smooth operation with the appropriate amount of torque. With these customisations available, users can shoot captivating movies without any distracting noises caused by changing settings using conventional command dials and buttons.
Capture quiet moments undisturbed: The NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S lessens shifts in angles of view when adjusting focus, allowing users to record videos smoothly. A quieter lens drive with outstandingly accurate and fast auto-focus (AF) control is also employed through a quiet and highly responsive stepping motor and diaphragm mechanism, ensuring enhanced usability and stable aperture control (AE) for both stills and movie shooting.
