Nikon Inc. today introduced the new 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor lens, a 4.3x zoom lens that is ideal for telephoto shooting opportunities. It incorporates many of Nikon’s most advanced lens design attributes such as Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass, Silent Wave Motor technology (SWM) and Enhanced Vibration Reduction (VR II), in a design engineered for use with both Nikon DX format digital and 35mm film SLR cameras. With a high-powered 70-300mm focal length range, the lens is ideal for sports, action, wildlife, travel and portrait photography, among other telephoto applications. When used on a Nikon DX format digital SLR, this lens approximates the picture angle performance of a 105-450mm lens on a 35mm SLR camera.

“Nikon’s range of Nikkor lenses with Vibration Reduction technology has grown substantially and the new 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor lens is another excellent addition, offering both Nikon digital and 35mm SLR photographers an advanced high-powered zoom lens in a surprisingly compact, lightweight design,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products, at Nikon Inc. “High quality lens design requires a challenging blend of art, science and, of course, photographic experience. With the new 70-300mm AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor, Nikon engineers have again met that challenge, producing a lens whose optical performance delivers clarity and contrast typically found only in lenses costing substantially more," he added.

Beyond the lens' incredible optical versatility is the benefit of Enhanced VR II Vibration Reduction – an innovation that makes it possible to take substantially sharper handheld pictures at slower shutter speeds than would otherwise be possible. This provides the distinct advantage of being able to shoot more effectively in a much broader variety of challenging conditions. With the new Nikon VR II advantage, users can take pictures at shutter speeds as many as 4 stops slower* than they ordinarily could shoot without the image degrading blur associated with camera shake at slow shutter speeds. Nikon’s advanced VR technology further enhances picture taking potential with a choice of two modes to match most shooting conditions. VR Normal Mode primarily compensates for camera shake, and includes automatic panning detection, as well as automatic tripod detection. VR Active Mode effectively compensates for vibration in situations where it is more pronounced and more frequent, such as when shooting from a moving vehicle.

To further ensure outstanding optical performance, the 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor features two Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements and three complex aspherical lens elements that provide for higher resolution, high-contrast images while minimizing chromatic aberration, astigmatism and other forms of distortion. The lens also features Nikon’s compact Silent Wave Motor technology (SWM), which combines fast and precise autofocusing with super-quiet operation, as well as Internal Focusing (IF) construction that allows the lens to focus without changing its external size, improving balance and handling characteristics.

The 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor lens will be available beginning October 2006 with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of $669.00**. For more information about Nikon and Nikkor optics, please visit www.nikondigital.com.

About Nikon Nikon, At the Heart of the Image™. Nikon Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes the Nikon Total Imaging System of consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, Nikkor optics, Speedlights and System Accessories; Nikon Coolpix® compact digital cameras; Coolscan® digital film scanners; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics. At the heart of every Nikon camera is Nikon’s Exclusive Feature System, making it easy for anyone to take amazing digital pictures. Through the Nikon Spirit Initiative™, the company, plays an active role in supporting aspiring and advanced photographers through a variety of philanthropic organizations, educational programs, events and workshops. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the web's most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

*Under Nikon measurement conditions.

** Manufacturers Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) are for reference only. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.