Nikon Introduces 55-200mm VR lens

March 6, 2007 - Along with the announcement of the D40x consumer DSLR, Nikon introduced a new 55-200mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor Lens. Called an "affordable vibration reduction lens," according to a company press release today, the new 55-200mm lens will retail for $245.95 when it hits shelves in April.

The new Nikon 3.6x Zoom-Nikkor 55-200mm lens has an equivalent focal length of 82-300mm in traditional 35mm format. Equipped with Vibration Reduction, the lens promises to reduce camera shake at slow shutter speeds, allowing users to shoot at 3 stops slower than usual without resulting image blur, according to the release.

"This new lens is ideal for sports, action, wildlife, travel, and portrait photography, among many other telephoto applications," stated the release.

The new 55-200mm Nikon lens is constructed of 15 elements in 11 groups with 1 ED glass element, standing for Extra-low Dispersion glass to reduce chromatic aberration. Other features of the new lens include its Silent Wave Motor for quiet auto focusing and a Focus mode switch for quick switching between auto and manual focus modes.

The Nikon 55-200mm VR lens is designed exclusively for Nikon DSLRs and weighs approximately 11.8 oz.