Nikon Z 600mm f/6.3 VR S Lens

Nikon is gaining popularity with their latest Z mount telephoto lens expansion, making Z6, Z7, Z8 and Z9 users eager to try out this purpose-built mirrorless focused 600mm. Featuring a focal length ideal for professionals and a maximum aperture of f/6.3, the new Z 600mm f/6.3 VR S lens offers reach, portability, stabilisation and a wide enough aperture, making it perfect for sports, wildlife photography or filmmaking.

Optical Performance and Construction

Unpacking the lens, you'll notice an exhibition of 21 elements in 14 groups, including 2 Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements and a Short-Wavelength Refractive (SR) element. These elements aim to suppress chromatic aberrations and deliver superior image fidelity. The Phase Fresnel (PF) lens element is particularly noteworthy as it allows the lens to be more compact and lightweight while achieving high optical performance. A Nano Crystal Coating is also present to mitigate the risks of ghosting and flare, resulting in enhanced image clarity.

Vibration Reduction and Focusing

The lens features a versatile Vibration Reduction (VR) system with three operational modes: OFF, NORMAL, and SPORT. These modes are selectable via the camera body, allowing photographers to customise stabilisation based on the shooting scenario. The VR system promises up to 6.0 stops under NORMAL mode, a beneficial attribute for sports and wildlife photography. The stepping motor employed for autofocus ensures speed and silent operation, a critical feature when your subjects are easily startled or when absolute quiet is needed in wildlife scenarios.

Video Recording Capabilities

Although primarily designed for still photography, the lens also considers filmmaking' needs. The inclusion of a 'click-less' control ring allows for smooth aperture adjustments during video recording, thereby offering more seamless changes in exposure levels and less focus breathing.

Ergonomics and Operability

Weighing less than 1.5kg with the tripod collar attached, photographers and filmmakers will quickly notice the brilliance of combining the focal length and portability, particularly due to its centre of gravity being closer to the camera body. When out in the field, there's also the functionality to change the setup with four custom function buttons available, plus a focus limit switch from infinity to roughly 4m or 10m.

Weather Sealing and Durability

The inclusion of rubber gaskets and seals ensures that the lens can withstand dust and moisture, even when using the optional 1.4x or 2x teleconverters, adding an extra layer of operational reliability. Turning your attention to the front of the lens, a fluorine coating offers superior anti-fouling performance, making it ideal for high-humidity environments.

Optional Accessories

To gain additional focal length on the Nikon Z 600mm f/6.3 VR S Lens, photographers can utilise the Nikon Z 1.4x Teleconverter or Nikon Z 2.0x Teleconverter. When mounting one of these teleconverters between a Nikon Z body and the new lens, we highly recommend using the Manfrotto 234RC Monopod Head in combination with the Manfrotto XPRO 4 section Aluminium Monopod. This dual combination of accessories ensures stability in rough terrain but maintains a light footprint to compliment the lens. In addition, ensure a high-quality 95mm filter such as the Nikon Arcrest Protection Filter - 95mm is used to protect the front element of the lens.