The introduction of the Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ lens marks a significant shift in Nikon's strategy, particularly targeting videographers and cinematographers. This new lens, which is the first designed specifically for video applications in the Z-Mount series, reflects Nikon's recent focus on enhancing its offerings for video professionals, especially following its acquisition of RED. This summary explores the lens's features, performance, and its potential impact on Nikon's standing in the video production market.
Design and Build Quality
The Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ lens showcases a robust design that aligns with traditional video lens aesthetics. Its notable features include a large square hood, a geared focus ring, and a power zoom rocker. The lens is built to withstand the rigors of field use, with weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture. However, it does have a relatively large 95mm filter thread, which may pose challenges for users seeking compatible screw-on filters, suggesting that a matte box with drop-in filters would be a more practical solution for many videographers.
Zoom and Focus Mechanisms
The lens offers multiple methods for zoom control, including a power zoom rocker and a manual zoom ring. Although the rocker provides a convenient way to adjust zoom, its sensitivity can lead to unintentional rapid adjustments, which some users may find challenging. Alternatively, assigning buttons on the camera body for smoother zoom transitions may enhance user experience. The zoom ring itself is responsive, allowing for precise adjustments without the lag that has been noted in older models.
Optical Performance
Optically, the Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ lens delivers commendable performance. The bokeh is described as pleasing, with out-of-focus highlights transitioning softly, which is advantageous for video work. Additionally, the lens exhibits minimal focus breathing, a critical factor for videographers, ensuring that changes in focus do not distract from the overall composition. Close-up capabilities are adequate for general use, although specialized macro lenses would be necessary for extreme detail capture.
Market Position and Pricing
With a price point of $2,600, the Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ lens is positioned as a premium offering in the market. While this pricing may limit accessibility for amateur videographers, it aligns competitively with similar products, such as the Sony 28-135mm f/4 PZ lens priced at $3,100. This strategic pricing reflects Nikon's commitment to catering to professional users who require advanced tools for video production.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Nikkor Z 28-135mm f/4 PZ lens is a clear indication of Nikon's dedication to expanding its video-centric offerings. By providing a power zoom lens with high-quality optics and user-friendly features, Nikon aims to attract videographers and cinematographers to its Z-Mount ecosystem. As the lens becomes available in the Spring, its performance and capabilities may further solidify Nikon's reputation in the competitive landscape of video production equipment, potentially influencing broader trends in camera technology and user preferences.