Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 VR for D7200?

bathgate · Jan 1, 2017

I've got an opportunity to pick up a nice, used 70-200mm. It seems that this lens has been something of a workhorse among photojournalists but I haven't noted many people here using it. Do any of you have experience with this lens? What are your overall thoughts? And how about pairing it with a D7200? It seems that it would be taking a very sharp FX lens and getting the best of the middle of it using it on a DX format body?

Mark K · Jan 1, 2017

Have been using this on my d800 and other Nikon....with great success. Criticism comes for its performance on full frame cameras ...so should be normal on D7200. Go and grab it.

MightyPir · Jan 1, 2017

I'm assuming you are referring to the VR1. Its a great lens for DX, and IMHO better than the VR2 as it doesn't have the focus breathing problems. Its not as strong in the corners as the VR2 but in the case of DX that's a non issue, so great value for money as well. Shooting wide open is not a problem and the AF is fast and reliable (at least on my version).

It is built like a tank and is heavy and bulky and you may find it easier to balance if the camera has the battery pack attached, especially for longer shooting sessions.

I bought it primarily for use at my kids school events several years ago and it was an excellent investment. It has proved its worth at concerts and sports events and been an outstanding portrait lens as well.

David Lal · Jan 1, 2017

bathgate said:
I've got an opportunity to pick up a nice, used 70-200mm. It seems that this lens has been something of a workhorse among photojournalists but I haven't noted many people here using it. Do any of you have experience with this lens? What are your overall thoughts?

.. but this one is an exception. I don't have one but have seen some great results, even when used with a modest teleconverter, and have long thought of doing the same as you i.e. buying a good secondhand one. I'd go for it.

I Beam · Jan 2, 2017

bathgate wrote:

bathgate said:
I've got an opportunity to pick up a nice, used 70-200mm. It seems that this lens has been something of a workhorse among photojournalists but I haven't noted many people here using it. Do any of you have experience with this lens? What are your overall thoughts? And how about pairing it with a D7200? It seems that it would be taking a very sharp FX lens and getting the best of the middle of it using it on a DX format body?

--
Michael
http://infinitemonkeyphotography.smugmug.com

Michael

I have owned a VR1 version of the lens for over 10 years and it still works like new. I think 70-200 is not ideal on a DX camera, 70mm is a bit long and 200mm is a bit short for birds etc. but still it is a great lens and I have found that I have been able to adapt to focal length on a DX camera but I do prefer using it on my D700.

When combined with the Nikon x1.4 TC there is no noticeable loss of IQ. With a x1.7 TC the lens needs to be stopped down 2/3 or one full stop.

Here are some samples on a D200 and D700.

D200

D700

D200 and x1.7 Nikon TC

100% Crop from the image above

I can thoroughly recommend the lens.

Regards

Paul

bathgate · Jan 2, 2017

Thanks, everyone, for all the positive feedback on this lens. You've all reinforced my own thinking (always a happy outcome!) and I'm going to go for it.

I Beam, I appreciate your posting some of your images. In your hands, that lens is incredibly sharp. I hope to do as well with it.

David, knowing already how you generally feel about zooms, your endorsement of this lens speaks loudly. Thanks for the response.

GlennW · Jan 3, 2017

bathgate said:
I've got an opportunity to pick up a nice, used 70-200mm. It seems that this lens has been something of a workhorse among photojournalists but I haven't noted many people here using it. Do any of you have experience with this lens? What are your overall thoughts? And how about pairing it with a D7200? It seems that it would be taking a very sharp FX lens and getting the best of the middle of it using it on a DX format body?

relie · Jan 3, 2017

I have this camera, lens combination and use it all the time. Sharp as a tack all the way thru. Used it with my D90 and my D7100 and now with the D7200. Focus is fast as hell with the D7200.

Get one, you'll love it.

Dave

bathgate · Jan 4, 2017

Thanks for the response, GlennW. The lens is in very good shape and comes with both caps, the tripod foot and original case. It seems to have been very well cared for.

bathgate · Jan 4, 2017

Good to hear, Relie. Thanks.

PaulChefurka · Jan 10, 2017

I had a version 1 on my D300 and D7100. It's a spectacularly good lens on DX cameras, but heavy. the VR was a real help. I traded mine in on a Sigma Art 50-100 because I fdecided that I needed IQ at f1.8 more than I needed 200mm and VR.

Robert Sommers · Jan 10, 2017

Probably my sharpest lens. Bulky, metallic and a pain in the ass to shoot but the absolute best tool for the focal length for me. Fantastic for nailing subjects at a distance.

--
Robert Sommers

Steve Bingham · Jan 10, 2017

Nice lens, but heavy. Many, many folks swear by this lens. I loved mine - but it is heavy.

bathgate · Jan 12, 2017

Nice shot, Robert. I went ahead and pulled the trigger. This lens is everything you and Steve say it is -- big, bulky, heavy, and difficult to handle. But the sharpness and image quality are amazing. So far I haven't been out for a real shoot, just some simple stuff around the house and yard to check it out but I'm blown away by the images this beast can produce. I'll just have to renew my gym membership to get in shape to handle it!

Robert Sommers · Jan 12, 2017

Great job. It may just be me but I feel like it is significantly sharper than my nikkor 24-70 2.8. You will never regret having it but you will have to will yourself to use it. Do so.

scubajunkie · Jan 12, 2017

I have one and have used it on everything from a D80 to a D500. I don't leave home without it. It is my go-to ice-skating rink lens.

camguyed · Jan 12, 2017

I recommend getting the vertical grip if you don't already have it. It will make the lens more manageable.

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Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 VR for D7200?

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