Nikon 12-24mm f/4G ED IF Autofocus DX Nikkor Zoom Lens

Enjoy a wider angle of view with the Nikon 12-24mm autofocus zoom lens, which is optimized for Nikon digital SLR cameras. The lens offers such features as a 2x zoom ratio, an exclusive Silent Wave Monitor that allows for accurate and quiet high-speed autofocusing, two Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements for minimized chromatic aberration, and three aspherical lens elements for low distortion. Nikon's D-type design, meanwhile, provides precise distant information for the flash and ambient light exposure processes. Perhaps the nicest feature, however, is the small image circle--the size of the image that's projected by the lens onto the sensor--which produces an optimal image from the center to the edge to the corner. Other details include a variable angle of view from 99 degrees (at 12mm) to 61 degrees (at 24mm), a rounded diaphragm that makes out-of-focus elements appear more natural, and an 11.8-inch close focus distance throughout the zoom range. All Nikon lenses carry a five-year warranty.
* Focal length: 12-24mm
* Maximum aperture: f/4
* Picture angle (Nikon digital SLR): 99 to 61 degrees
* Lens construction: 11 elements in 7 groups
* Lens drive: Silent Wave Monitor
* Extra-Low Dispersion (ESD) lens: 2 elements
* Aspherical lens: 3 elements
* Focusing: Internal Focusing (IF) type
* Minimum shooting distance: 11.8 inches
* Maximum reproduction ratio: 1:8.3
* Minimum F stop: 22
* Aperture blades: 7 (rounded)
* Lens hood: HB-23 (included)
* Filter size: 77mm
* Included accessories: HB-23 hood, 77mm lens cap, rear cap
* Dimensions: 3.2 inches in diameter, 3.5 inches long
* Weight: 1.07 pounds



Customer feedback:

1. Is it worth a grand? Oh my yes.
First, the cons. If you haven't already standardized on 77mm filters, then you'll have to buy all-new ones to fit this lens. That's an extra expense to keep in mind before you buy. The hood that comes with this lens doesn't snap into place as snug as it should. Getting the lens in and out of your bag, you may find the hood jiggling loose. The dinky built-in flash on Nikon's popular D70 body isn't a good fit with this lens. From about 12-18mm, the flash/lens combination will leave a dark shadow at the bottom of the frame. If you plan on shooting indoors with a flash, plan on using the Nikon SB-600 or -800.
Optically, however, this lens is a dream. Typical wide-angle distortion at the extreme 12mm, but less than you might expect. You might find softness around the edges at 12mm wide-open, but otherwise this is one sharp lens. I recently took it to Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs (shooting on a 6.1mpix D70 body), and was shocked at the detail even on not-so-close objects. This lens delivers. And that's the whole point: It delivers what you can't get anywhere else for DSLR work. For that, most any price is cheap.

2. I performed several days of research before purchasing this lens by surfing the net for reviews and reading articles written by professional photographers. 99% of them gave this lens a very high rating... and after using it myself I can see why. The results of my pictures are worth every hard-earned dollar I spent to buy this lens. I purchased the Nikon D-70 camera and set the intent after spending that much for a camera I deserved great lenses to produce pictures that are inspirational and joyful to view. I am not a professional photographer; I am a serious student of photography who appreciates the art form.
Not everyone will have a need for this lens; however, for those of you who want to expand your tools and you want the best and can afford it, "go for it!' If you want to read some professional reviews visit Nikonlinks.com and kenrockwell.com