Nikon Introduces the NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ Lens: A Game-Changer for Videographers
Nikon Corporation, widely recognized for its innovative contributions to photography and videography, recently unveiled the NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ lens. Designed for full-frame/FX-format mirrorless cameras that utilize the Nikon Z mount, this new lens was officially announced on October 30, 2024. The development of this lens marks a significant advancement in Nikon’s lens technology, particularly for videographers who require versatile, high-performance equipment.
A Versatile Lens for Diverse Shooting Scenarios
The NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ stands out with its broad focal length range of 28 to 135 mm. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for various shooting scenarios, whether you’re capturing wide landscapes or detailed close-ups. The lens is especially beneficial for videographers who often work in dynamic environments, such as documentary filmmaking or solo shoots, where reshoots can be challenging.
One of the standout features of this lens is its power zoom capability, a first for the NIKKOR Z series. This feature is particularly useful for videographers as it offers smooth and controlled zooming. The inclusion of a zoom lever allows users to choose from 11 different zoom speeds, accommodating a wide array of creative needs. This flexibility ensures that users can adapt their zoom style to match the demands of their project, whether it requires subtle adjustments or rapid zooming.
Advanced Features for Professional-Quality Video
This lens is not only about versatility; it also promises high-quality optical performance. The NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ supports high-resolution 8K video recording, ensuring that videographers can capture stunningly detailed footage. The lens minimizes shifts in focus position and the center of gravity during zooming, providing stability and confidence even when frequently changing focal lengths.
Moreover, the lens is compatible with a range of video accessories, enhancing its adaptability in professional settings. It also features remote control capabilities via a computer or smartphone, offering greater flexibility for videographers who need to adjust settings on the fly.
Primary Features of the NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ
Broad Focal Length Range
The lens covers a convenient range of 28-135 mm, eliminating the need to switch lenses for different compositions. This makes it an excellent tool for photographers and videographers who need to work quickly and efficiently.
Close-Up Capabilities
With a minimum focus distance of just 0.34 meters in the 28 mm to 50 mm range and 0.57 meters in the telephoto range, this lens excels in capturing dynamic close-ups. This feature is particularly valuable for filmmakers who want to emphasize details in their scenes.
Enhanced Zoom Features
When paired with the Nikon Z9, the lens offers Hi-Res Zoom for an angle of view equivalent to a 270 mm focal length with 4K video recording. Users can select from 11 zoom speeds and assign them to the zoom lever or one of the camera’s function buttons, providing a tailored experience.
Customizable Zoom Ring
The zoom ring’s angle and direction of rotation can be customized according to user preferences, adding another layer of personalization to the shooting experience.
Synchro Mode
This mode enables simultaneous optical zoom and Hi-Res Zoom using a single control during video recording. This synchronization simplifies the process of capturing high-quality video.
Professional Video Accessory Support
The lens supports various professional video accessories, including matte boxes and follow focus systems. This compatibility ensures that videographers can integrate the lens into their existing setups without hassle.
Internal Zoom Mechanism
The internal zoom mechanism maintains the balance of the camera-lens setup by preventing shifts in the center of gravity. This feature is particularly beneficial when using a gimbal, ensuring smooth and stable footage.
Advanced Coating for Reduced Flares
Nikon’s Meso Amorphous Coat, the company’s top anti-reflection coating, is applied to the lens to significantly reduce ghosts and flares. This results in clearer, more vibrant images, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Quiet and Fast Autofocus
The stepping motor (STM) ensures fast and quiet autofocusing, crucial for videographers who need to capture footage without intrusive noise from the lens.
Focus Breathing Suppression
The lens is optimized for video recording, with a design that suppresses focus breathing. This feature ensures consistent framing and smooth focus transitions, enhancing the overall quality of the video.
Linear Manual Focus Drive
The support for linear manual focus (MF) drive allows for smooth focusing, providing videographers with precise control over their shots.
Lens Hood and Filter Adjustment Window
The rectangular lens hood helps control the amount of light entering the lens, reducing ghosts and flares. Additionally, a filter adjustment window allows users to adjust circular polarizing and variable ND filters while the hood is attached, adding convenience for those who frequently use filters.
Remote Zoom Control
Zooming can be controlled remotely from a computer, smartphone, or tablet using Nikon’s NX Tether, SnapBridge, or NX Field applications. This feature is especially useful for videographers who need to make adjustments without physically handling the camera.
Customizable L-Fn Buttons
The lens includes L-Fn buttons that can be assigned various functions. These buttons are strategically positioned on the side and top of the lens, ensuring smooth operation even when shooting in vertical or portrait orientation.
Protective Design Features
A Nikon yellow ring around the lens mount adds a distinctive aesthetic touch. Additionally, Nikon’s fluorine coat on the front lens element effectively repels dust, water droplets, grease, and dirt. The lens is designed with dust- and drip-resistance, though it’s important to note that complete resistance is not guaranteed in all conditions.
Conclusion
In summary, the NIKKOR Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ is a significant addition to Nikon’s lineup of lenses, offering a blend of versatility, advanced features, and high-quality performance. It caters to the needs of both photographers and videographers, providing the tools necessary to capture stunning images and videos. Nikon continues to push the boundaries of optical performance, contributing to the development of imaging culture and expanding the possibilities for creative expression. For more information, you can visit Nikon’s official website.
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