Nikon Unveils Four New Nikkor Lenses

In addition to their new D3100 DSLR, Nikon has announced four new NIKKOR lenses, all of which will be hitting shelves in September. The lenses include the AF-S DX 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR, the AF-S 28?300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR, the AF-S 24-120mm f/4G ED VR and the AF-S 85mm f/1.4G ED. These four new lenses bring the total number lenses released by Nikon in 2010 to seven. All four lenses feature Nikon's Silent Wave Motor technology—while the three zoom lenses all include Nikon's Vibration Reduction II Image Stabilization system.

AF-S DX NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR
At an estimated street price of $399.95, this DX lens is designed to take on the ever-growing number of affordable do-it-all lenses like the recently-announced Tamron AF70-300mm F/4-5.6 Di LD Macro Zoom.

The VR II's image stablization abilities will come in very handy, especially if you plan on shooting at longer focal lengths without a tripod. Speaking of tripods, the lens includes a nifty "Tripod Detection Mode," which ensures that image stabilization stays activated and counteracts any small vibrations when mounted.

The lens also includes a High Refractive Index lens element, which helps to ensure high contrast, even at the maximum aperture. Two Extra-low Dispersion elements that help to eliminate chromatic aberration.

Like the other four lenses, the DX 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6 utilizes Nikon's Silent Wave Motor technology. As it is the cheapest in the line-up of new lenses, Nikon is touting it as a great companion to the D3100. We'll be happy to test that theory as soon as we get our hands on retail units.