Nikon Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 VR (The Lens That Delivers)

Nikkor 70-200 f/2.8 VR, The Lens That Delivers NikonIf you're thinking this might be an awesome lens to own, you're absolutely right. Whatever you need, it delivers. On a digital camera, specifically, it delivers an awesome 105-300mm zoom range at a constant, fast f/2.8. Of course the big feature of this lens is it delivers solid vibration reduction through its aptly named Vibration Reduction technology. Note that this is Nikon's first generation VR, while there is a new VR II on new lenses. I can say that the first VR is fantastic, and I have not tried VR II, but you won't be disappointed in this lens' capabilities.How effective is the VR? As a photojournalist who does a heck of a lot of indoor shooting in crummy lighting, I can say the VR on this lens replaces a tripod or monopod in all of those situations, including indoor sports, and delivers images that would be impossible to do hand-held without VR. I can safely get sharp images at 1/60, regardless of how far I'm zoomed in. Zoomed all the way back, I've gotten some usable images at 1/30-1/50 as well. But it's not just useful indoors. It gees in handy for outdoor sports as well, like night time football or soccer in a strong wind. No more monopods for me. (I still advocate tripods for many situations, but for a photojournalist who also writes stories, it's just too much for me to lug around on the job and too much time to set up. I mostly use a tripod for landscape/nature stuff).How does the lens handle? The focus and zoom rings are very smooth and very precise. They're not smooth to the point of slow, but they're not slippery either. Of course, the lens element doesn't move as you zoom. The auto focus is tack sharp and it tears through action like a ferocious carnivore. Switches for M/A, VR, and near focus blocking are easily reached. There are focus hold buttons on the front of the lens, but I never use them. It's weighty but not heavy, unless you hand hold it for a long time.The main advantages of this lens over the older 80-200mm f/2.8 are the increased zoom range and VR. Of course, it delivers breathtaking image quality through its superior optics. For examples of image quality from this lens, visit Light Fantasies Photography on the Internet.The lens gees with a padded shoulder bag, flower petal hood, front/rear caps, removable tripod foot, and a 1-year warranty with a free upgrade to 5-year extended warranty. The removable tripod foot makes it easy to mount the lens on a tripod. The tripod ring rotates freely and locks with the twist of a knob. Filter size for this lens is 77mm, which falls in line with the filter size for the Nikkor 17-55 and Nikkor 12-24 lenses (see my review of the 12-24).This is the perfect action lens and especially great if you have a digital camera, since you can get a 300mm viewing angle equivalent without spending the money for a physical 300mm lens. I use it in every situation, from sports, indoor portraits, and landscapes to all sorts of action and event shots. Will it work on film SLRs? Absolutely, you just won't get the 300mm viewing angle; it will be a straight 70-200mm.As with all Nikon equipment, make sure you are buying from an authorized Nikon dealer. My favorite on okay is Cameta Camera. If you don't buy from an authorized dealer, Nikon will not honor your warranty. If you like this guide, please vote.