6 Best Nikon Lenses For Sports Photography In 2023

Last Updated: April 19, 2023

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The Nikon range of cameras has been praised for generations for their insane photography capabilities and professionals were quick to adopt them.

Lenses play a major role in all this, and if you are looking to buy a Nikon lens for sports photography, I want to make damn sure you find the best one.

If you’re a professional sports photographer, you already know how things work but, in case you’re just starting off, you do need to know a few things.

Let me list them out for you:

• Firstly you’ll need a good Telephoto lens with a nice focal range. The focal range is measured in millimeters.
• The higher the max range is the further you can zoom in.
• Having a lens with a wide aperture also helps, as you can maintain fast shutter speeds that help you capture moving subjects better.
• If the lens has stabilization built-in, it’ll handle zoomed-in shots better. This can be useful while your subject is far away. If it isn’t in fact, stabilized, you can put the camera on a Tripod.
• If you are shooting handheld, you need to make sure that the total weight of the camera and the lens isn’t too heavy for you. Otherwise, it can affect stability and result in undesirable photos.

Now you need to keep many factors in mind to make sure that you don’t end up getting a lens that won’t help your cause at all.

However, that can be super-confusing and time-consuming.

That’s why I’ve sorted out the best ones available and listed them here.

• Best Nikon Lenses for Sports in 2023
  • 1. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 80-400mm f.4.5-5.6G ED VR
  • 2. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR
  • 3. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR
  • 4. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR
  • 5. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR
  • 6. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR
• Frequently Asked Questions
  • What kind of lens do I need for Sports photography?
  • Are Nikon cameras reliable for doing good Sports Photography?
  • Can I use third-party lenses instead?
  • How much range do I need to capture good sports photos?
• Verdict

Best Nikon Lenses for Sports in 2023

For the selection process, I’ve taken all the qualifying sports lenses from Nikon and evaluated them for a while.

After going through every possible pointer required for sports photography, I’ve finally landed on a total of six lenses that do the best possible job while also covering a wide price range.

So, your budget should be covered.

1. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 80-400mm f.4. 5-5.6G ED VR

• Focal Range: 80-400 mm
• Aperture: f/4.5-f/5.6
• Weight: 3.46 lbs

If you want the no-compromise flagship lens, and budget is not a limitation, the NIKKOR 80-400mm f.4.5-5.6G ED VR is going to be an excellent option for you.

It has a ton of professional-grade features and lets you capture objects extremely far away while also working as a medium-telephoto lens when retracted.

Design & Build

The NIKKOR 80-400mm f.4.5-5.6 is built like a tank and weighs around 3.46 lbs.

That is a bit on the heavier side.

It uses the Nikon F-Bayonet mount making it compatible with Nikon’s ever-expanding line-up of cameras.

However, although you can technically mount it to an APS-C camera, this one is made for Full-frame.

Focusing Mechanism

Nikon has implemented their M/A focus shift mechanism which allows the lens to quickly switch from Autofocus to Manual Focus by turning the focus ring.

It even comes with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) to ensure fast autofocusing speeds.

These will help out with quick-moving subjects which is a key requirement.

Highlighting Features

The lens comes with four ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements and one Super ED element.

While the ED elements deal with correcting chromatic aberrations, the Super ED elements can eliminate secondary spectrum as well.

These come together to eliminate the rainbow effect around light sources.

For Zoom, the 5X number might not sound like much, but thanks to the wide range, it can zoom in pretty far.

While zoomed in, stabilization can become a concern, and thanks to a very well-built OIS, that isn’t a huge issue here.

It also has Vibration Reduction (VR) to compensate for shaky hands.

This makes handheld photography more convenient and, although this is a common feature for Nikon lenses, the mechanism built-in here is more advanced than your typical upper mid-range offerings.

Conclusion

The NIKKOR 80-400mm f.4.5-5.6G ED VR is a premium & feature-rich lens that has some excellent capabilities making this one of the best lenses for shooting sports.

So, if you have the extra budget, you surely won’t be disappointed with this lens. However, it is recommended to be used with a Full-frame camera.

Pros

• Four ED elements & one Super ED element
• Fast autofocusing mechanism
• Excellent range

Cons

• Super expensive
• On the heavier side
   

2. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR

• Focal Range: 200-500 mm
• Aperture: f/5.6
• Weight: 5.07 lbs

The NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR lens comes with a fixed aperture, a variable range, and it kinda weighs a lot.

It is mainly targeted towards wildlife photography but it does an amazing job when it comes to sports photography.

Design & Build

As you might have guessed, the build quality is excellent, the mount is an F-Bayonet type, and it is actually one of those Telescope-looking lenses, so it’ll be taking some extra space in your camera bag.

The weight is around 5.07 lbs which can be a bit much for shooting handheld.

But, your mileage on that may vary.

Focusing Mechanism

Just like its more expensive sibling, the NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6 has the same Silent Wave Motor (SWM) and M/A focusing technologies.

That means you can indeed change the focus from Auto to Manual, just by turning the focus ring, and if the camera sensor is also capable, it can grab onto subjects really fast.

Highlighting Features

Where you do get a significant compromise though, is in the ED department.

There is no Super ED element which means, secondary spectrum elimination is happening.

Also, you only get three ED elements instead of four which means the rainbow effect is less contained.

However, in real life, it’s still really good.

There is a 2.5x zoom which means you don’t get as many levels of flexibility, as it starts at a whopping 200mm.

However, the entire mechanism moves inside the outer shell, so it won’t expand when you zoom in.

There is no OIS, but the company did include Vibration Reduction (VR), to compensate for handshakes.

Conclusion

If you don’t have an issue with the extra weight, not having OIS and in case you can really make sense of the price tag, the NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR is a really good lens for sports photography.

Pros

• Works well with both FX & DX format cameras
• Excellent range
• Fixed aperture

Cons

• 200 mm is a bit high starting range
• A bit too heavy

3. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR

• Focal Range: 70-200 mm
• Aperture: f/4.0
• Weight: 1.87 lbs

If you want something lighter and you don’t necessarily require a super-long range, then the NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR might just be the perfect Nikon sports lens for you.

It still has a lot of premium features, is easier to shoot handheld, and costs ever so slightly less.

Design & Build

This is still a premium lens, so of course, it is built really well.

However, at around 1.87 lbs, this one isn’t as heavy as the other premium options here.

That means shooting handheld is comparatively easier on this one.

It is using old-school switches but, you still don’t miss out on the M/A focus-switching mechanism.

Focusing Mechanism

You still get SWM for quick & quiet autofocusing, VR for reducing camera shake while shooting handheld photos, and 4-stop image stabilization.

This is also one of the lenses where the optical elements move internally to achieve different zoom ranges, so the lens housing doesn’t change in size.

Highlighting Features

It comes with three ED elements that help to correct chromatic aberrations.

That’s the rainbow effect that originates around bright light sources.

There is no Super-ED element though, so this one won’t really eliminate any secondary spectrums.

However, the ED elements do a pretty impressive job on their own.

There is a 2.9x zoom, expanded between a range of 70-200mm.

This is just enough zoom range to take some medium-distance close-ups.

But, if you’re shooting from further distances, it would be better for you to shoot with something with a longer range.

Of course, the aperture is fixed at f-4.0.

Conclusion

The NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR is a premium lens for sports photography by Nikon that comes with some of the top-end features and a fixed aperture.

If you’re fine with the zoom range, require that handheld stabilization, and don’t have an issue with the price tag, you should definitely consider this lens.

Pros

• Good range
• Fixed aperture
• Three ED elements

Cons

• Price to performance ratio isn’t ideal
• Looks are kinda ordinary

4. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR

• Focal Range: 28-300 mm
• Aperture: f/3. 5-5.6
• Weight: 1.76 lbs

If you have one of the Nikon Full-frame (FX) cameras, and you are looking for a good sports lens under that $1000 price point, the NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is going to be one of the best lenses you can buy.

Design & Build

The build quality is actually really good with a solid & sturdy one-hand feel.

It has a weight of around 1.76 lbs which is still a bit on the heavier side but, not by a lot.

Although it’s not a super-premium lens, Nikon hasn’t cut any significant corners here.

Focusing Mechanism

Even most of the premium features are still here.

For example, you still get Vibration Reduction (VR) that compensates for camera shakes and M/A focus shifting where you can switch between Auto & Manual focus just by rotating the focus ring.

Features like SWM are also present and they do help with Autofocus.

Highlighting Features

Where you will get a significant compromise though is in the ED elements. Unlike its more expensive siblings that come with three or even four ED elements, this one only comes with two.

That means it doesn’t do as impressive a job with chromatic aberrations.

It’s still pretty good but, definitely toned down a little.

As far as Optical Zoom levels go, this lens can do up to 10.7 times, thanks to a range spread-out between 20-300mm.

That means you do get to shoot pretty up close and expand to a further range when the subject moves away from you.

Nikon has also included Aspherical elements to reduce bending at the edges.

Conclusion

The  NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G is an excellent lens for the money and if you can make use of the features, I have no problem recommending this to you.

optimized for Full-frame cameras and although it can fit onto an APS-C type camera, I won’t recommend using it that way.

Pros

• Good range
• M/A focus switch
• Good value for money

Cons

• Only two ED elements

5. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR

• Focal Range: 18-300 mm 
• Aperture: f/3.5-6.3
• Weight: 1.21 lbs

Now in case, you’re using an APS-C (DX) camera instead, and you need a good Nikon sports lens that provides all the important features while keeping the price in check, the NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR needs to be on top of your consideration list.

Design & Build

Nikon has been providing really great build quality in their upper mid-range segment and this one is no exception.

Yes, the build quality ain’t gonna compete against the super-premium players but, for the price, it has great build quality.

The device weighs around 1.21 lbs, so handheld shooting shouldn’t be an issue.

Focusing Mechanism

As mentioned earlier, all the important stuff is still here including SWM, Vibration Reduction (VR), and even Auto-Manual focus shifting using the focus ring.

That means the lens can help with faster autofocus times, compensate for camera shake & change its mode of focus when you rotate the focus ring.

Highlighting Features

Surprisingly enough, it has a total of three ED elements to deal with the rainbowing effect that originates from bright objects.

That puts it in the same line with premium lenses that cost twice or even more.

Of course, there is no Super ED element at this price point.

Thanks to the wide-spread range, the Optical Zoom range goes up to a whopping 16.7x.

At around 18mm, it does have a wide-angle perspective to it, but Nikon did include three aspherical elements to eliminate any bending at the edges.

The closer range also makes it one of the best Nikon lenses for indoor sports photography.

Conclusion

Needless to say, the NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR is an excellent lens for Nikon DX-format cameras.

It doesn’t compromise on important features and although it’s an upper mid-range device, it has a surprisingly great value.

Pros

• Great value for money
• Three ED elements
• Good range

Cons

• Aperture at max range is a bit too clogged

6. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR

• Focal Range: 70-300 mm
• Aperture: f/4.5-6.3
• Weight: 0.91 lbs

If you’re on tighter budget and looking for a cheap Nikon lens to do sports photography on your DX-format camera, the NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR is one of the best value-oriented lenses that come in less than $400.

However, you’ll have to give up on a handful of features.

Design & Build

The build quality is good for the price but, it’s nothing special either.

It doesn’t feel cheaply made or look that way and unless you’ve used premium or upper mid-range lenses before, you won’t be able to tell a difference.

It weighs around 0.91 lbs, so it’s significantly easier to handle while shooting handheld.

Focusing Mechanism

It does have VR to stabilize camera shake while shooting handheld and automatic switching of Auto-Manual focus modes using the focus ring.

However, you do not get the Silent Wave Motor (SWM) as it has the Pulse Motor technology.

It isn’t as fast or as quiet as the SWM.

Highlighting Features

Unlike all the other Nikon sports lenses on the list, this one only comes with a single PD element.

That means, although it’s better than having no PD elements at all, the reduction of chromatic aberrations isn’t as effective as the others.

As a result, rainbow-ish shimmers are more prominent.

The 4.3x zoom under the 70-300 mm does a fine job capturing the subjects from various distances.

At 300 mm the aperture closes up to f-6.2 which isn’t ideal for night and as there aren’t many stability mechanisms in place, it’s going to shake significantly while zoomed in, so maybe consider a tripod for those situations.

Conclusion

As far as having a wide variety of features & flexibility go, the NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR isn’t bringing a lot to the table.

But, for the cheaper price, this is definitely one of the better Nikon lenses out there that do well in sports photography.

So, if you don’t mind the compromises, definitely get this one.

Pros

• Decent value for money
• Good range
• Weighs less than 1 lbs

Cons

• Only one PD element
• No Silent Wave Motor (SWM)

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of lens do I need for Sports photography?

Sports Photography requires a good Telephoto lens.

For Nikon cameras, you can look for the company’s F-mount lenses that have good zooming range, at least a decently wide aperture, some kind of inbuilt stabilization, and a good focusing mechanism.

Are Nikon cameras reliable for doing good Sports Photography?

Nikon cameras are great for shooting sports.

However, the faster premium models definitely do a way better job compared to the baseline stuff.

Even a lot of Sports Photographers use Nikon cameras for their shoots.

Can I use third-party lenses instead?

Of course, you can use third-party lenses.

If you don’t want to use Nikon’s own lenses for sports photography, companies like Sigma, Tamron, Tokino, Yongnuo, and more are making some great Nikon-compatible lenses.

How much range do I need to capture good sports photos?

For regular sports photos, 70-200 mm is the basic standard.

However, your workflow requires a lot of zooming in, you can get lenses that max out at anywhere from 300 mm to 600 mm.

Verdict

Nikon cameras have been used by amateurs, intermediates & professionals to do photography in various fields and of course, sports photography is one of the major ones.

So, if you are looking for a great sports lens to complement your setup you’ve definitely made the right choice.

Considering the fact that you have made it till the end, you probably have a personal favourite by now.

But, in case you want to double-check or you’re still a bit confused, let me make the selection process a bit simpler for you.

• If you own a Full-frame (FX format) camera and budget is not an issue, get the Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 80-400mm f.4.5-5.6G ED VR.
• If your budget is under $1000 get the Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR for your FX format camera.
• In case you own an APS-C (DX-format) camera instead, get the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR.
• If you’re looking for something under $500 for your DX format camera, get the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR.
• In case you want a high-end lens that works well with both FX & DX format cameras, get the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR.
• If you want something similar but for a more general-scale sports photography, get the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR.

I hope that cleared out any doubt you had.

In case you want to check some cameras from Nikon or other brands, there are a ton of articles on the website, exploring the same.

So, maybe consider checking those out next.

Table of Contents

• Best Nikon Lenses for Sports in 2023
  • 1. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 80-400mm f.4.5-5.6G ED VR
  • 2. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR
  • 3. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/4G ED VR
  • 4. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR
  • 5. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR
  • 6. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR
• Frequently Asked Questions
  • What kind of lens do I need for Sports photography?
  • Are Nikon cameras reliable for doing good Sports Photography?
  • Can I use third-party lenses instead?
  • How much range do I need to capture good sports photos?
• Verdict

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10 Best Nikon Lenses for Sports Photography in 2023

Picking up the best Nikon lenses for sports photography can help you to capture wonderful unparalleled photos. Sports photography is one of the most challenging photography genres of them all. 

Subjects are constantly moving, doing different actions, and you have to keep up the pace to capture the perfect shot. As a professional sports photographer, you don’t want to run around trying to shoot the best angle and later find out that the images came out blurry.

So in sports photography, you can capture stunning images if you use powerful cameras and lenses. Powerful lenses offer unique features with significant motion capturing ability. 

In this guide, you will know what Nikon lens is best for action shots and how you can pick one for you. 

Nikon AF FX NIKKOR

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Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G

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Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm

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What kind of lens do I need for Sports photography?

You know you will not sit there and shoot before buying a perfect Nikon lens for action shots. Most of the sports events contain 95% percent of fast-paced moving subjects. To capture every shot perfectly, you will need,

• A good Telephoto lens with an excellent focal range.
• Higher the max range to be able to zoom further.
• A wide aperture gives fast shutter speeds.
• Stabilization built-in to handle zoomed-in shots better

There are three major areas of a lens that we must look out for while buying a Nikon lens for sports photography. These are,

Motor Speed

In sports, as a photographer, you have to shoot while your subject is in motion. So the lens you want to use should have fast autofocus, and lenses with Silent Wave Motor provide that. 

Telephoto Lens

The requirements of this feature depend on the type of sports photography you do. For indoor sports photography, you might not require high standards telephotos lenses. On the other hand, for outdoor sports photography, a powerful telephoto lens is best when the subject is far away.

Speed

To capture the subject with a fast motion lens with f/2. 8 or lower aperture is the perfect one. So if you are looking for the best lens for soccer photography, this would be the configuration of an ideal lens. Though these lenses are expensive, they will give you value for money.  

10 Best Nikon Lenses for Sports Photography

So we have enough education on what kind of lens is the best fit for sports, and now I think you will be able to choose the best Nikon lenses for sports photography. I have listed the zoom lenses and prime lenses separately to choose from according to your requirements and budget.

5 Best Nikon Zoom Lenses for Sports Photography

The major selling point of a zoom lens is it has zoom rings that allow you to zoom in & out without moving your positions. Though the fixed aperture and image quality compared to prime lenses would definitely go for a challenging debate. Keeping them aside, let’s know about our top picks for the best Nikon zoom lenses for sports photography.

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED

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Buyers of this lens claim it as one of the best balanced Nikon lenses for Outdoor sports photography in terms of pricing. With the fantastic build quality and accurate focusing, it is an all-around performer for long-distance sports photography.

Why it Stands Out

It stands out to us because it has HRI and ED elements that enhance its zooming capabilities. As we are talking about sports photography, it is important to shoot from a distance. With Nikon AF-s dx Nikkor 55-300mm lens, you get professional VR and image stabilization features to capture noiseless and sharp images. 

Who Will Use The Lense

One reason is adequate to buy this lens, and it can capture blur-free images and the budget-friendly price tag it offers. For people looking for a cheap Nikon lens for sports photography, it’s the perfect one for them. You can even shoot wildlife portrait photos with it as well. 

Bottom Line

If you have a D3200 camera by any chance, then you can bang for your buck with it. It can work as the best Nikon lens for sports videography as well. 

Pros:

• Great Value
• Useable Focal Length
• Mid Range Light Speed
• Decent Build

Cons:

• Telescoping Body
• Loss in Sharpness

Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G DX AF-P ED

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Sometimes you require zooming in and getting some extra reach to cover your subject. But you always get pulled back by the thought of getting noisy shots. Nikon 70-300mm lens can be the solution for your extra reach. It can zoom in to your subject smoothly, and the amazing image stabilization feature lets you shoot with minimum wrist movements.

Why it Stands Out

This telephoto zoom lens has ED elements embedded in it, and it helps photographers keep the chromatic aberration at shorter lengths minimum. Another stand-out feature of the Nikon 70-300mm zoom lens is its weight. The item weighs at 1.05 pounds only, and the shutter also provides images with almost zero blurriness in them.

Who Will Use The Lense

Photographers who shoot in fast-moving sports such as football, soccer, baseball, etc., looking for a Nikon lens for action shots can capture perfect moments. The shutter speed of this lens is blazing fast and ensures that you don’t miss a bit while shooting. Photographers who have a D3100 can use this lens and get the maximum potential output from their camera.

Bottom Line

If you ask me to mention a list of the best Nikon lens for outdoor sports photography, I would definitely keep this one in it. It provides value money experience, and so if you are an amateur photographer, you can try this one for sure.

Pros:

• Has great zoom
• Blazing fast shutter speed
• Can long-distance zoom subjects smoothly
• Amazing image stabilization

Cons:

• Autofocus is occasionally a little slow

Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 80-200mm f/2.

8D ED

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With proper lighting, most lenses perform outstanding, but when you have low light scenarios, these lenses struggle to get quality images. With this lens, you can shoot stunning photos even in low lights. You will get blazing fast autofocus to shoot premium quality photos at lightning-fast speed.

Why it Stands Out

The outstanding design, premium quality of materials in the building, and the ability to capture stunning images make this lens stand out. You get perfect colors as it has ED elements and SIC glass built-in for color accuracy. This telephoto lens offers you the powerful photographing experience that you dream of.

Who Will Use The Lens

As the lens has a wide aperture and huge zoom lengths, photographers of soccer action photography or any fast-moving sports photography can use it. Photographers who are looking for the best lens for baseball events will love this lens for sure. Other than this, individuals covering events and shooting portraits for weddings or birthdays can also carry this lens.

Bottom Line

With this lens’s stunning image capturing ability, you will get a value for money photography experience. It’s a fast telephoto lens that can shoot incredible photos in low light.

Pros:

• Strong build quality
• Can capture a high-quality image
• Smoothly separate the subject from the background

Cons: 

• It does not come with a lens hood

Nikon AF-P NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED

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For photographers who love to shoot with their bare hands, this Nikon AF-P Nikkor 70-300mm lens will be worth a try. In this lens, you get improvements in several areas, such as improved image quality, autofocus, speed, VR image stabilization, and many more.

Why it Stands Out

It stands out because of its ability to bring balance between size, zoom power, and vibration reduction. These abilities allow photographers to shoot great handheld photos and videos of sports, action, concerts, weddings, wildlife, and more. With this lens, you can shoot on the go from nearly any distance.

Who Will Use The Lens

Indoor and outdoor sports photographers will use this lens because of its ability to provide crisp and clear photos while using it with bare hands. So photographers who cover events were moving with a tripod gives extra pain can use this lens.

Bottom Line

It’s a great addition to the latest generations of Fx and DX cameras, as you can get peak performance with the lens. Because of its versatility, photographers can capture every portrait and close-up shot perfectly.

Pros:

• Have significant distortion at the extreme edges
• Focuses much faster than the older AF-S lens
• Lighter than the AF-S lens
• Zoom is smooth to use

Cons:

• The focus is a bit soft

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.

8G ED VR II AF-S Nikkor Zoom Lens

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This lens is famous for its amazing focusing ability in low light with speed and accuracy. It’s a bit heavier than usual ones, and because of that, it’s more durable than any other lenses out there. Using this lens, photographers will get a standard telephoto zoom range with image stabilization.

Why it Stands Out

The inclusion of the Vibration Reduction for better image stabilization and 7 Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements helps this lens stand out in the crowd. The Nano Crystal Coat reduces ghosting and flare for even greater image clarity. The Super Integrated Coating (SIC) helps light transmission and offers superior color consistency.

Who Will Use The Lens

This lens is beneficial for not only fast-paced sports photographers but also event and wildlife photographers as well. Though it’s slightly expensive, you can consider it one of the best Nikon zoom lenses for sports photography. Professional photographers with years of experience use this lens the most.

Bottom Line

This is the last zoom lens on this list, but it’s not the weakest for sure. It doesn’t matter if your subject is moving or still. With this lens, you will be able to capture the perfect crispy shot you were always planning.

Pros:

• Sharpest lens among its competitor
• Autofocus is ultra-fast and ultra-quiet
• Colors are pleasing, realistic, and brilliant
• Contrast is profound

Cons:

• The Lens hood is plastic

5 Best Nikon Prime Lenses for Sports Photography

The focal length of the prime lens is fixed, and it remains between 12mm and 5200mm. Prime lenses offer much wider apertures than zoom lenses. It helps these lenses to let more light into the camera sensor and shoot stunning images in low light. Below I have listed some of the best prime lenses for indoor/low light sports photography.

Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens

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It’s a great action-capture performance lens for sports photographers. According to some professional photographers, it’s the sharpest and clearest lens. You can shoot any kind of portrait or commercial project with this lens. The bokeh of this lens is very smooth and can be achieved almost effortlessly.

Why it Stands Out

The primary two points that make this lens stand out are the low light abilities and background blur perfectionism. Because of the sharp background blur ability, you can capture images with a creamy bokeh effect. In low light scenarios, you can capture a relatively better image with this lens. 

Who Will Use The Lens

Photographers who work on events with lowlights are prime users of this prime lens. If you want to capture the best images for indoor sports events, then you surely should use this one. Portrait photographers also use this one because the background detection of this lens is excellent. 

Bottom Line

Prime lenses are remarkable for their low light abilities, background blur, and the ability to “see” the shot before you take it as the distance is set. Because it’s lightweight and short, it’s easy to take anywhere.

Pros:

• Provide the best performance in low light conditions
• Lightweight and handy
• Provide stunning bokeh effect
• Has the ability to point and shoot

Cons:

• Plastic build quality

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G Lens

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If you are starting your sports photography career, then this lens can be a game-changer for you. It offers a very sharp and super quick photographing experience, and in sports photography, you need both of them. The bokeh images that the lens renders are creamy. It can smoothly separate the subject from the background, and so the bokeh effect looks stunning.

Why it Stands Out

According to many amateur photographers, it’s a multi-use lens, and to me, it is the stand-out feature for this lens. You can take out and shoot immediately without worrying about the ISO, contrast, and lighting in the low light scenario with this lens. 

Who Will Use The Lense

Photographers who are starting their career and looking to buy a value for money lens will love this lens. They can just point and shoot the subject, and the images will come out almost perfect. 

Bottom Line

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G lens is one of the best Nikon lenses for indoor sports photography in the market right now. Indoor sports and events often lack lights, and because this lens has a wide aperture, it can contain more lights than any zoom lens.

Pros:

• Very sharp and super quick.
• Produce flawless “Bokeh” effect
• Great for low light scenario

Cons:

• Nobody stabilization or VR

Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED

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With the 8.38 lbs weight and 14.09 x 6.3 x 6.3 inches dimensions, this expensive lens can be the ultimate choice for sports photography. If you ask me to pick the best Nikon lens for sports photography, I will go for Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED.

Why it Stands Out

The phenomenal image quality is this lens’s number one stand-out ability, and as a photographer, you don’t ask for more. The very fast and accurate AF, Pro-grade dust- and moisture-sealing, and impressive build quality are some of the features that make it appealing to photographers.

Who Will Use The Lens

Being more Lighter and more rugged than its predecessor, this lens is for fast-moving photographers. So sports photographers and wildlife photographers who do a lot of hiking can easily carry this lens. Photographers who shoot in events that have low light can purchase this lens without any doubt.

Bottom Line

With this lens, you can capture the thrill of sports, action, and wildlife with staggering clarity and precision. Even when you are shooting handheld with challenging lighting conditions, it will provide you with stunning photos.

Pros:

• Offers sharp images
• Immediate autofocus
• It offers a gorgeous bokeh effect
• Allows to take great shots of wildlife and sports in motion 

Cons:

• It’s not a budget-friendly option

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 500mm F/5.

6E Pf ED VR

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Nikon introduced the super-telephoto ability to their smallest, lightest full-frame 500mm prime lens. Its length and widths are 9.2 inches and 3.2 pounds. It’s a powerhouse that allows you to shoot wildlife, sports, and action with unmatched agility. Photographers call it Nikon’s most sensible and thoughtful 500mm super-telephoto to date. It is substantially lighter and more compact than its predecessor.

Why it Stands Out

The size and weight of this lens would be a great selling point and stand-out feature as well. The sharpness and properly balanced colored images it offers will definitely stand out as well. It’s fast to focus and light to hold place it on the top of some expensive lenses also.

Who Will Use The Lense

Professional sports photographers would definitely use it, and other than them, professional wildlife photographers would also love this lens. As it’s a compact and easy-to-carry item, photographers who travel a lot would definitely want to keep it in their collection.

Bottom Line

Prime lenses are always great for indoor sports photography as they produce bright and sharp images even in low light. Being a lightweight and easy-to-carry premium lens, every photographer should experience this beast for once.

Pros:

• Great for low-light photography
• Lightweight
• Can shoot the fast-moving object
• Can produce sharp and crisp

Cons:

• It might get faulty or scratchy products out of the box due to rough handling.

Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED

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It’s our last but not the least member of the best Nikon prime lenses for sports photography. It is dust and moisture resistant which helps photographers to use it roughly. The maximum focal length is 200 millimeters and weighs 6.46 pounds. The dimension of this product is 8.03 x 4.88 x 4.88 inches.

Why it Stands Out

Nikon’s VR is always great. This lens’s Vibration Reduction (VR) is one of the top stand-out features for sports photographers. It has excellent control over the motion blur that helps to capture amazing portraits with a bokeh effect. With its  f/2 aperture, It offers excellent exposure to its photos.

Who Will Use The Lense

Sports photographers are the number one user of this lens. On top of that, wildlife photographers, wedding photographers, landscape shooters can also use this lens and capture masterpieces.

Bottom Line

It’s an expensive one for sure, so if you are a beginner, you might skip it, but if you can afford it, I suggest you take the experience for once. With this lens, you can take your photography to the next level.

Pros:

• Produce Sharp and crisp photos.
• Can capture eye-popping detail
• Great subject separation for the bokeh effect

Cons:

• It was a bit expensive

What is the best Nikon lens for sports photography?

From the above segment, we got the chance to know about some of the best Nikon zoom and prime lenses for indoor and outdoor photography. The lenses from the list are handpicked and reviewed based on personal experience. 

In my opinion and some expert photographers, the winner for the best Nikon lens for indoor and outdoor sports photography is the Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens.

Though it’s a bit expensive, it’s still worth buying because, with this lens, you can point and shoot immediately. The images will come out clean, crisp, and sharp with proper lighting, even if you have less light to work with.

How To Choose the Best Lenses for Sports photography?

Choosing the best lenses for sports photography isn’t an easy task. One wrong move and you will end up buying your worst nightmare ever. Check out the below points before buying a lens for any sports photography. I hope the following buying guide will help you to choose the best one for you.

Autofocus and its Responsiveness

As we are talking about sports photography, the lens we need to choose must have faster autofocus. The quicker your lens can focus it can shoot the more speedy object and capture a clear image. Choose a lens with a faster shutter speed and autofocus. 

If your object is a fast-moving athlete, then the responsiveness of your lens will save your day. You can choose any lens from the list above according to your budget.

Maximum Aperture

Aperture decides how much light your image will have, so lenses with a wider aperture, preferably f/2. 8 or more, will be the perfect pick for you. The wider aperture allows you to shoot in poorly lit or dim environments. So if you are covering any indoor sports event or any lowlights events, choose the lens with maximum aperture.

Focal Length

As a sports photographer, you might need to shoot from far distances from the subject you are shooting. So you should pick a lens with maximum focal length so that you can shoot subjects from a distance as well. To choose the focal length, you must know how far you are going to shoot. Know which aspects you are going to shoot, and after deciding on these two points choose the lens that fits your requirements.

Lens Ergonomics

Last but important is how the lens feels in your hand. If you feel uncomfortable holding the camera after installing the lens, your shooting won’t be a smooth experience. See whether the lens you are going to purchase has a tripod collar or where the focus ring is placed. Also, notice whether the lens has an AF-on and lock button or not.

Build Quality

Build quality is also another deciding factor for lenses. It should have a robust build quality and be lightweight so that you can use it roughly as long as you want. Lenses with Weak build quality might offer all of the above, but they certainly will not give you long-term service.

What is the Best Budget Nikon Lens for Sports Photography?

Lenses with faster autofocus, maximum aperture, and long focal length are perfect for sports photography. From today’s list, I would go with the “Nikon AF S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Fixed Lens” as the best prime lens for sports photography and “Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED” as the best zoom lens for sports photography.

What depth of field do you generally need in sports photography?

For sports photography, a wider aperture is the best, and so usually, f/2. 8 or lower focal length lenses are a perfect choice. You will get a sharp focus on your subject while the spectators and background will be blurred accurately.

What settings should you need for night sports photography?

In sports photography, the settings are not specific. It depends on the scene you are shooting. But below, I have shared a couple of ideal locations for an idea.

• Shutter Speed: 1/1000th of a second or as fast as possible
• Focal Length: f2.8 or lower
• ISO: according to the lighting of your scene.

Are Nikon cameras reliable for doing good Sports Photography?

Nikon cameras and lenses are one of the top gear for sports photography. But it’s obvious that you will get premium service from the higher ones than the baseline ones.

How Much Range do I Need to Capture Good Sports Photos?

Generally, 70-200 mm is ideal for sports photography, but if you don’t want to take risks and most of your shooting range is from far, you can go with the 300 mm to 600 mm.

Final Verdict

We all want the best Nikon lenses for sports photography to capture photos. Very few of us know how to choose one or what to look out for before purchasing one. In this article, I tried to pick the best options and compare them to make a wise decision while buying the lens kit for your sports photography.

Bordie Capron

Author

“Bordie Capron is a Sr. Content Maker who is working in The Clipping Path Service an US-based image and video post-production company for over 7+ years. She completed her degree in graphic designing and worked as a graphic designing expert for several years. She always loved writing”

Best lenses for Nikon: top for DSLRs and mirrorless cameras | Articles | Photo, video, optics

Photo: gcardinal/commons. wikimedia.org

You have long ago answered the question “which is cooler – Canon or Nikon”, or maybe, on the contrary, you are standing at a crossroads and do not know which system to choose. In any case, we have a very important material for you: how to choose the best Nikon lens for any format and any task. We offer the best choice for beginners and pros and tell you how to choose a lens for Nikon.

Formats

Before we talk about the best lenses for Nikon, you need to decide on the main available formats.

All Nikon cameras with interchangeable lenses can be divided into several broad categories.

First, these are SLR and mirrorless cameras. They use two different mounts (mounts) – Nikon F for SLR and Nikon Z for mirrorless models. Mirrorless camera lenses are not suitable for DSLRs, but F-mount SLR lenses are compatible with mirrorless cameras through the Nikon FTZ adapter.

Secondly, these are crop (DX) and full-frame (FX) cameras. Full frame lenses are also suitable for crop cameras, but when using a crop lens on a full frame camera, the frame will be automatically cropped (1.5x crop). If you turn off auto crop in the camera menu, you will get powerful vignetting.

Essentially we get four broad categories of lenses: crop (DX) reflex, full frame (FX) reflex, crop (DX) mirrorless and full frame (FX) mirrorless. However, in our ranking there will be only three categories, since we have combined mirrorless lenses into one general top. The fact is that Nikon has relatively recently begun to develop its crop mirrorless system, so there are only a few lenses on the market designed specifically for DX format mirrorless cameras.

At the same time, full-frame (FX) Z-series lenses are also suitable for crop (DX) mirrorless cameras of the company, so you have a wide choice in any case.

Also in this material there will be not only native glasses, but also the most interesting models from third-party manufacturers, primarily from Sigma and Tamron. Usually lenses from third-party manufacturers are significantly cheaper than native options, and often they are almost not inferior to them in quality.

Lens types

To choose the right lens for your Nikon camera, you need to determine what kind of application you need it for. We discussed this question in detail in our article “Which lens to buy if you are doing it for the first time”: part I and part II.

In this article, we have collected the most popular types of lenses for all basic tasks:

• Standard zoom (replacing a whale lens) is a universal option for starting a photography career, everyday shooting and travel.
• An all-purpose prime is an everyday lens that is suitable for street photography, portraits in the environment and most non-specific situations.
• Wide-angle zoom – typically used for landscapes (nature, urban, architecture and interiors).
• Telephoto zoom – for wildlife, sports and portraits (including headshots).
• Portrait prime – suitable not only for portraits, but also for product photography, and sometimes for street photography.
• Macro lens – good for shooting miniature objects (insects and flowers, textures and still life), can also be a good option for portraits.
• Fisheye lens is a wide-angle fisheye lens suitable for landscapes, architecture and creative photography.

So, we have decided on the formats and the main types of glasses, now it’s time to choose the top lens for your Nikon camera.

The best lenses for Nikon DX 9 APS-C SLR cameras0007

Standard zoom (whale zoom replacement)

Nikon AF-S DX 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR

Photo: bhphotovideo.com

As a replacement for cheap whale zoom, we offer Nikon AF- S DX 16 -80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR. This glass was supplied with high-end DSLRs like the Nikon D500, and it can be called the most advanced standard zoom for DX format. It offers a versatile set of focal lengths – 24-120mm equivalent, although it sacrifices a little long-range telephoto for the sake of increasing sharpness and aperture.

The optical design features four ED elements with extra-low dispersion, which reduce aberrations, as well as special coatings against glare and flare. The front and back element are fluoro-coated to help wipe off fingerprints and other dirt easily. The glass is focused quickly and accurately (a good ring-type ultrasonic drive is used). As befits a good all-round zoom, it has an optical stabilization system (in Nikon’s terminology, “vibration reduction”).

There are trade-offs in terms of the picture: at the far end of the focal lengths, sharpness drops, and at the front you can notice barrel distortion, which will have to be corrected during post-processing. Otherwise, there are no complaints about the picture or the assembly.

If you need a wider range of focal lengths, look no further than the Nikon 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor.

Universal Prime

Nikon 35mm f/1.8G

Nikon 35mm f/1.8 is one of the most interesting lenses for the system in terms of price and quality. This is a very compact and lightweight glass with a 52mm equivalent focal length of a “normal” lens.

This glass can be a great addition to a whale zoom, quickly improving the quality of the “picture” and at the same time does not require serious financial investments. It’s sharp, has beautiful bokeh, and does well in low light. All this makes it a versatile option for a variety of tasks – from travel photography and street photography to portraits. At the same time, despite its very respectable age (the lens was released in 2009), it has a very decent autofocus motor – accurate and quiet.

Of the minuses – a plastic construction (except for a metal mount) without protection from bad weather. Chromatic aberrations are also very noticeable at an open aperture.

Wide-angle zoom

Nikon 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR

Photo: imaging-resource.com

Nikon AF-P DX 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR budget wide angle zoom, covering 15-30mm equivalent focal lengths. Of course, you can find faster options, but the combination of compact size and low weight with excellent sharpness and optical stabilization for very reasonable money make it perhaps the most interesting option.

For a very long time with wide-angle zooms for DX cameras, in general, everything was very difficult. Nikon only had the 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5, which cost almost three times as much as our hero (now it costs 70 thousand), while Canon has already released its budget 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6. Nikon’s answer was the 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6, an inexpensive zoom for landscape photographers at a very interesting price.

Of course, you need to take into account the price segment – the case is almost entirely made of plastic, although thanks to this, the model weighs only 230 grams, half as much as many competitors. The second limitation is not too peppy aperture, which will make it difficult to shoot sunset and evening landscapes. However, the sharpness and overall picture quality make it a very interesting option for anyone looking for an all-round wide.

* The lens is only compatible with new Nikon SLR cameras (which include D3300, D5500, D7500, D500 and newer), so it’s best to check the company’s official website before purchasing. For older models like the Nikon D3100 and Nikon D5100, the Tamron 10-24mm F3.5-4.5 Di VC II HLD is the best wide-angle zoom lens.

Telephoto zoom

Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED AF-P DX VR Zoom-Nikkor

Nikon AF-P DX Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G VR lens is a great replacement for whale telezoom 55-200mm. Its 105-450mm equivalent focal length range is suitable for any shooting where you need to “reach” a subject in the distance: sports, wildlife, etc. Unlike the whale model, the 70-300mm is equipped with an optical stabilization system, thanks to which you get much sharper shots at long focal lengths.

At the same time, the glass turned out to be light (415 grams) for its class, and it can be found at a low price of 23 thousand.

If you want consistently high aperture (and are willing to pay twice as much for it), Tamron has a very interesting option: the 70-210mm f/4 Di VC.

Portrait lens

Nikon 50mm f/1.8G

Photo: fatllama.com

Nikon 50mm f/1.8G is a classic: on DX format cameras its focal length is equivalent to 75mm at full frame, which is perfect option for portrait photography. In terms of optics, the lens is also good: sharp, with pleasant bokeh and good performance in low light. In addition, it focuses quickly and accurately, and weighs less than 200 grams.

For headshots, you can take the longer focal length Nikon 85mm f/1.8G – on crop cameras its EGF is 128mm. And if the priority is aperture and powerful blurring of the background, Nikon has an almost flawless glass in terms of optics, although it is shorter than classic portraits – Nikon 50mm f / 1.4G.

The best lenses for Nikon FX full-frame SLR cameras

Standard zoom (whale replacement)

Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Art

The versatile Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 fast lens is one of the best standard zooms not only for Nikon’s full-frame FX line, but also for Canon’s DSLRs. Yes, this is not cheap glass (especially in contrast to more budget options for crop cameras), but even with such a price tag, it is more than 20 thousand cheaper than the native Nikon 24-70mm f / 2.8E.

You get excellent sharp optics, high constant aperture, versatile zoom range, optical stabilization and a weatherproof housing.

It should be noted that the lens is not too light (it weighs a little more than 1 kg), but it has a strong metal body.

If you want a little more zoom for a little less money, Sigma has an interesting alternative: Sigma AF 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM Art. Of course, this glass is not so fast, but it weighs less. The model is also equipped with optical stabilization, but the body is not protected from bad weather.

Universal Fix

Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art

Photo: cameralabs.org

Since we’re on to Sigma’s high-end Art series, we can’t help but mention another very popular and not-so-cheap lens, the Sigma 35mm f/1. 4 DG HSM Art. In terms of optics, the glass turned out to be almost flawless – excellent sharpness even at an open aperture, a minimum of aberrations, cool bokeh, etc. Compared to similar native glasses from Nikon and Canon, Sigma does not have weather protection and stabilization, but this model is inferior only in these aspects, and at the same time it costs half as much.

If 60 thousand still sounds expensive, you can pay attention to less fast options – Tamron SP 35mm f/1.8 Di VC USD and Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8G ED.

Wide-angle zoom

Tamron 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 Di II VC HLD

Photo: Youtube channel Eric Rossi

We hesitated for a long time to put the Tamron 10-24mm f/3 here. 5-4.5 or Nikon 14 -24mm f/2.8G, and in the end decided that the top lenses for full-frame DSLRs needed to be diluted with more budget options.

Tamron glass has many advantages – a good picture, optical stabilization, fast and quiet autofocus. In terms of assembly, there is also nothing to complain about – as befits a landscape lens, it received not only a strong body, but also protection from adverse weather conditions.

The zoom produces a sharp picture with high contrast, and distortion and chromatic aberration are under control, with very little color fringing at the edges of high-contrast objects.

If you still decide to go for the native Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8G, be prepared for the lack of optical stabilization and a bulky heavy body. However, you have to pay for the high aperture ratio and incredible sharpness – literally and figuratively.

Telephoto zoom

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8E VR

Well, if in the last nomination we lost to a more budget option, then here we will do the opposite. The Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8E VR is an expensive lens, but it offers fast aperture, lightweight design (important for telephoto), super sharpness and very fast autofocus. 9The 0003

70–200mm f/2.8 is a favorite of many professionals, and is suitable not only for sports or wildlife, but also for, say, portraits. And besides the price, it probably has no special disadvantages.

But, of course, there are some very good more budget alternatives on the market, although you can’t call them completely cheap either. This is both a less bright, but lighter Nikon 70-200mm f / 4, and 70-200mm f / 2.8 from Tamron, which offers the same aperture as the native model, but at the same time it is slightly weaker in all other characteristics – from autofocus to optical quality.

Portrait lens

Nikon 85mm f/1.4G

Photo: pompo.com

Classic portrait focal length and high aperture make this prime an ideal choice for the company’s full-frame DSLRs. And someone even considers it the best portrait lens in the history of Nikon.

The lens is optically flawless without weighing a ton. Of course, 595 grams is not a feather, but it is an all-metal magnesium alloy lens with weather protection. In addition, its main competitor, the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 Art, weighs over a kilogram. At the same time, one cannot miss the fact that the native lens received much faster autofocus compared to its counterpart from Sigma.

If you want a smaller, cheaper alternative and are willing to sacrifice aperture, the Nikon 85mm f/1.8G is also very sharp and handles low light quite well.

Best lenses for APS-C (DX) and full frame (FX) cameras Nikon

Best fisheye lens Fisheye 8- The 15mm f/3.5-4.5E ED is the company’s first and so far only fisheye zoom. On full-frame cameras, it provides a 180-degree vertical/horizontal (full circle) field of view at 8mm and a partial circle of 180 degrees diagonally at 15mm. At the same time, the lens is also compatible with crop DX models.

The image is very sharp throughout the entire zoom range, although slight chromatic aberration is sometimes noticeable at the edges of the frame.

The lens is fairly compact (83mm long) and overall not very heavy (485g) considering the all-metal magnesium alloy body. Great for creative photography.

Best Macro Lens

Nikon AF-S Micro-Nikkor 60mm f/2.8G ED

Photo: slgckgc/commons. wikimedia.org

This macro lens is perfect for both the company’s DX and FX DSLRs. Despite its venerable age, it is still in the top of the most popular Nikon lenses due to its excellent sharpness and other goodies useful for macro photography.

With a minimum focal length of 19 cm, you can get very close to your subject. At the same time, if you shoot a bug or a butterfly, you will not scare them away. The lens also has a quiet autofocus motor, which is also useful when shooting those skittish “models”.

The best lenses for Nikon mirrorless cameras

Standard zoom (whale replacement)

Nikon Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/4 S

This standard zoom is almost half the price of the top Z 24-70mm f/2.8 : yes , it cannot boast of super aperture, but it is much more compact and lighter. Although this category is referred to as “whale replacement”, the 24-70mm f/4 S can be found bundled with high-end Z7 mirrorless cameras. No wonder, because the lens successfully copes with high-megapixel matrices, while maintaining the highest level of detail.

As with all Z-series lenses, the build quality and attention to detail are top notch. There is also a small screen that displays the current settings, and a customizable control ring around the lens, which can be used, for example, to adjust the aperture without clicks (stops) during video shooting.

As we have noted, if you need an even faster zoom, the Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/2.8 is at your service.

And for crop DX cameras, Nikon has a very compact and lightweight Nikon Z DX 16-50mm f / 3.5-6.3 VR.

Universal prime

Nikon Nikkor Z 35mm f/1.8 S

Photo: dpreview.com

At first glance it might seem that the price tag of 60 thousand is a bit high for a modest 35mm f/1.8, but Nikkor Z 35mm f / 1.8 S is definitely from the high-end lens caste. Like other Z-series primes, it’s near flawless in terms of optics, which helps make up for its modest aperture in a world where f/1.4 is becoming the new standard for prime lenses.

There is no distance or depth of field scale on the body, and the only controls you get are a single ring and a manual/auto focus switch. But the picture quality, silent tenacious autofocus and a lightweight compact body more than cover any minor flaws in this glass.

If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, Viltrox has a good autofocus model Viltrox AF 35/1.8 Z. Of course, it is very far from the optics of the native lens, but in terms of price and quality it is quite a working option.

Wide-angle zoom

Nikon Z 14-24mm F/2.8 S

Of course, for most users, the more modest Nikon Z 14-30mm f/4 S is enough for the eyes: a lightweight, compact retractable lens with an 82 thread mm filter, plus a cool picture. But if you want to get the most out of your full-frame mirrorless, be prepared to pay twice as much for the Nikon Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S as it’s one of Nikon’s best wide-angle lenses.

In addition to a constant aperture of f/2.8 over the entire zoom range, it has a few more nice bonuses in terms of control – a display showing the current settings and a separate customizable button. The set includes two hoods, one of which can be equipped with filters of an increased diameter of 112 mm. All this in addition to a super-sharp picture and fast autofocus.

Telephoto zoom

Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S

Photo: camerajabber.com zoom, which we have already mentioned (width Z 14-24mm f/2.8 and standard Z 24-70mm f/2.8). Like the rest of the lenses in the series, it has a display with settings and a separate customizable button. But in this model, another L-Fn 2 button has been added, located between the zoom and focus rings.

The lens uses two separate autofocus motors to help track fast-moving subjects at all focal lengths. There is also effective optical stabilization, which is important for such glass.

Perhaps the only downside is that this model is larger than most 70-200mm f/2.8 zooms, and at 1.5kg it’s clearly not the lightest in class.

Portrait lens

Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S

Nikon Z 85mm f/1. 8 S is a new take on the classic 85mm f/1.8, which we wrote about in the part about mirrored lenses.

Of course, the most discerning portraitist will want f/1.4 or even f/1.2 glass for very shallow depth of field, but the Nikon Z 85mm f/1.8 S blurs the background powerfully and paints some very nice bokeh. In addition, it is very sharp wide open. And its versatile focal length with grippy and nimble autofocus makes it the first choice for portraiture.

As with other f/1.8 primes for the Z series, the Chinese company Viltrox offers a budget alternative. Its Viltrox AF 85 / 1.8 Z model supports autofocus, and the sturdy all-metal body can compete with native models. But, of course, you should not expect the same sharpness and autofocus speed from it.

Macro Lens

Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S

Photo: camerajabber.com

There are currently two macro lenses in the Nikon Z lineup. One is the relatively simple and low-budget Z NC 50mm f/2.8. In general, a pretty good option, but due to the short working distance (the distance between the front lens and the object), you will have to be very close to the object, which is inconvenient, for example, when shooting insects. The Nikon Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S has a much more comfortable working distance and is a more advanced (and more expensive) glass overall.

In addition to other high-end Z-series optics like a screen and a customizable button, this lens has a built-in stabilization system. There is also a fast and quiet autofocus motor on board. Such a lens is quite good not only for macro photography, but also for headshot portraits.

And as a budget third-party alternative, take a look at the less telephoto, but equally fast Laowa 65mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro. This model does not have autofocus, although manual focusing is usually more effective for macro photography. The glass provides a 2x magnification – the matrix displays objects twice their actual size, so you can capture the smallest details with it.

All prices are correct at the time of publication.

Essential equipment for sports photography | Articles | Photo, video, optics

Source: fujifilm-x.com

Even though the COVID epidemic is changing the rules for sports competition, which undoubtedly affects sports photography, one truth remains indisputable for this genre: access – this is all. In this post, based on an article by acclaimed photographer John Harris, we’re going to look at a few tips for the aspiring sports photographer, both in terms of equipment and skills. So, back to our hard truth: if you’re not near the “action”, you just won’t have a photo.

Does this mean you absolutely need a curb pass? Not necessary. Of course, it’s nice to be able to shoot competitions in close proximity, but you can get this “access” in many ways. A good sports photo can even be taken off the field, so not having a badge shouldn’t scare you. However, in order to get into the “major league” of professional sports photographers, you, of course, sooner or later will have to somehow get passes to events of interest.

Source: John Harris/bhphotovideo.com

Regarding “events of interest”. While you may one day photograph Wimbledon or the Paris-Dakar Rally, the only way to hone your skills is to start by shooting the sports and events you know and love. And it doesn’t have to be big spectator sports. Mountain biking competitions, table tennis, sailing – they all include fast-paced action with beautiful backgrounds, that is, everything you need for great sports photography. When participating in sporting events, take lots of pictures, edit carefully, and look for relevant publications to present your work.

If you’re primarily interested in the most popular sports but can’t get into the stadium, try to hone your skills at smaller venues and events. Amateur tournaments, camps and pre-game practice are all great opportunities to develop skills and build a portfolio. Also, try to get access to regional events and tournaments that may not be covered by the mainstream sports media.

Source: adorama.com

Also study the work of other photographers and analyze the difference between shots in daily news releases, online publications and specialized publications. Sports photos in the daily news should simply illustrate the events of the last game – they usually don’t take too much time to prepare and are often not very artistically interesting, but they tell a story. On the other hand, there are sports publications in which sports photography is a real piece of art, such as the Victory Journal.

No matter where or how you want to publish your shots, there is a standard set of cameras and lenses for sports photographers to get the job done.

Cameras

Of course, almost any camera can be used for sports photography, but it must be able to capture fast action and withstand harsh weather conditions, so a professional DSLR or mirrorless is the best option. There is a suitable range of lenses for these cameras, in particular fast zooms and long telephoto lenses.

Sony a9 II

While mirrorless cameras such as the Sony a9 II and the new full-frame models from Canon and Nikon are becoming part of sports photography, high-end DSLRs from Canon, Nikon and Pentax are still the pros’ preferred choice. The Nikon D6 and Canon 1DX Mark III, for example, are flagship DSLRs capable of high-speed shooting with fast and tenacious autofocus and excellent high ISO performance. They can shoot high-quality video, and the robust body of these models is reliably protected from adverse weather conditions.

Pentax K-1 Mark II

The Pentax K-1 Mark II is also worth considering. Although the Pentax model is not as fast as Nikon and Canon flagships, it is significantly cheaper. In addition, it has one of the strongest bodies of any full-frame DSLR on the market.

It’s important to re-emphasize that while high-end cameras, when used to their full potential, can increase your potential and improve your work, there is no need to start with them. In addition, this is far from the only choice of professional photographers. Incredible sports photos are created using a variety of devices – from smartphones to medium format cameras. However, there are mandatory criteria for a sports camera: it must be a model with fast focusing, fast continuous shooting and support for various lenses.

Olympus OM-D E-M1X is just such a camera, in MFT format (Micro Four Thirds, Micro 4:3). Despite having a smaller sensor, it retains features on par with the best DSLRs, including a powerful processor and a built-in vertical grip with dual batteries. In addition, the crop factor of the smaller sensor creates a longer equivalent focal length, which can be advantageous when shooting from the sidelines of the playing field, especially given the cost of premium telephoto lenses.

Canon’s and Nikon’s DSLR line-ups also offer many offerings that strike a balance between performance and budget. If you’re buying your first camera, consider the Nikon D500, D7500, or Canon EOS 80D. These are cameras with a smaller sensor compared to full-frame models, but they are suitable for the needs of sports photography and are compatible with the best lenses of their brands. This is important because if you continue with sports photography and eventually decide to switch to a high-end camera, you will be able to use the lenses you buy now.

Nikon D7500

If you already have an entry-level DSLR, you can certainly start shooting with it, but if you are buying a new one, we would not recommend “beginner” DSLRs. Often they are not strong enough in terms of build and do not provide the speed and options that you will ultimately need. Also, do not pay attention to bridge cameras with integrated telephoto zoom lenses. While these are affordable and multi-tasking devices that can capture crisp images at long range (under ideal conditions), these cameras lack speed (focus and burst speed), lens aperture, and ruggedness for professional sports photography.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

There are also cameras like the D850, a high resolution Nikon DSLR that doesn’t prioritize continuous shooting like the Nikon D6, but its focus system, detail and its compact size makes it a desirable model for many sports photographers. The same applies to Canon 5D series cameras. We can also recommend the Nikon D750, which, despite its venerable age, can still be found new – this is Nikon’s most affordable full-frame model.

Lenses

Cameras come and go, but your best lenses are here to stay. Therefore, you can often find tips on the net that suggest saving on the first camera and investing in a quality lens. When it comes to sports photography, don’t limit yourself to a bad camera, however, by and large, this tip also works. First, you need to find a couple of quality zooms and, perhaps, a telephoto lens with a fixed focal length (the so-called “fix”).

Canon EF 70-200 F2.8L IS III USM

A telephoto prime is often a real financial hurdle for aspiring sports photographers, but it’s always worth keeping in mind the possibility of renting long lenses for specific events, as well as considering using teleconverters . In addition, you do not have to try to capture the facial expressions of an athlete from 50 meters, at least at first.

Major brands have their own versions of the 24-70mm f/2.8 and 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses, which are good lenses to start with. You can also consider buying a 24-105mm f/4 and a 400mm lens. When choosing a 400mm lens, you can quickly notice the difference in price between models, and this is usually related to the maximum aperture, or “aperture” of the lens. In addition to advanced optics and additional features, more expensive lenses have a maximum aperture of f/2.8, which allows more light to pass through the lens and, in sports, use faster shutter speeds to freeze motion. In daylight conditions, such “bright” lenses may not be as necessary thanks to improvements in optical stabilization systems, so weigh your needs well before investing heavily in an f/2.8 ultra-telephoto prime.

Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8G ED AF-S Nikkor

The combination of the above zoom lenses and teleconverter to increase the focal length will prepare you for almost any situation. At the same time, do not forget that the teleconverter causes a slight decrease in aperture ratio. Other more affordable options include using ultra-telephoto zoom lenses such as the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR, with its versatile zoom range, or even the Sigma 150-600mm f/5.6-6.3, which offers wide range of focal lengths, but requires constant monitoring when working in less-than-ideal lighting.

Modern telezooms have come a long way in image quality. Two noteworthy models are the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR and the Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x. Both offer a versatile zoom range, constant aperture, and a built-in teleconverter for zooming up to 560mm at f/5.6. For the MFT system, Olympus has the M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm f/4.5 TC1.25X IS PRO, which is equipped with a 1.25x teleconverter. Add a teleconverter to the crop sensor EGF and you have an extremely efficient 1000mm EGF lens.

Many sports photographers prefer telephoto primes for their speed and sharpness, and the Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS is one good example of these incredible lenses, but their size and cost pose understandable problems for beginners.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED

Telephoto lenses are a must for sports photography, but normal and wide angle lenses are just as important. The 24-70mm f/2.8 has already been mentioned earlier as an essential item for your lens kit, but you will also find 85mm primes and wide-angle zooms in the backpacks of many sports photographers, like the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM and the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED.

Accessories

In addition to cameras and lenses, there are several accessories that are especially important for sports photography. Support for heavy lenses and maintaining stability during extended gaming is critical. While tripods are preferred by some photographers, the portability offered by monopods makes them the preferred choice.

Manfrotto MVMXPROA4 Monopod

You may not always want or be able to use an on-camera flash, but for indoor events you should have a flash, ideally as powerful as you can afford.