Nikon has announced the release of the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S, a professional telephoto zoom lens compatible with full-frame/FX-format mirrorless cameras.
As part of Nikon’s S-Line range, the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S is the world’s first interchangeable zoom lens to combine a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8 with a built-in 1.4× teleconverter. The lens covers a focal length range of 120–300mm and can extend its reach to 420mm with a single action, giving sports photographers the flexibility to respond quickly to changing shooting conditions without switching lenses.
Designed for the demands of professional sports photography, the lens combines exceptional optical performance with the versatility to capture a wide range of fast-moving subjects and shooting environments, including:
- Low-light indoor figure skating competitions
- Outdoor sports such as tennis and football matches
- Wildlife and nature photography
- Events requiring long-range coverage
Its maximum aperture and advanced optical design deliver outstanding resolution and smooth, natural bokeh, enabling photographers to capture athletes’ facial expressions and movements in fine detail, creating immersive images with remarkable clarity.
The lens also delivers rendering performance comparable to that of a prime lens across the frame, while offering the flexibility of a zoom. Despite incorporating a built-in teleconverter, it weighs approximately 2,735 g, about 515 g lighter than its predecessor, the AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR, released in 2020. This lighter design, together with the convenience of extending focal length without switching equipment, supports greater mobility and responsiveness when photographing fast-moving sports action.
Primary features
Feature 1: Precise autofocus for fast-moving subjects
The NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S incorporates Nikon’s Silky Swift VCM (SSVCM) autofocus drive system.
It is designed to provide fast, precise and smooth autofocus performance, supporting photographers when tracking rapidly moving subjects such as:
- Athletes
- Vehicles
- Animals
- Performers
- Birds in flight
This makes the lens particularly suitable for sports and action photography, where subjects can move quickly through the frame and decisive moments may last only a fraction of a second.
Feature 2: Exceptional optical performance across diverse lighting conditions
The NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S features Nikon’s Meso Amorphous Coat, which delivers the highest anti-reflection performance in Nikon’s history, alongside ARNEO Coat to effectively suppress ghosting and flare.
Together, these technologies are designed to support clear, high-quality image rendering, even in challenging lighting conditions, such as:
- Stadium and arena lighting
- Bright sunlight
- Strong backlighting
- Floodlights and stage lighting
Feature 3: Stable handheld shooting with advanced vibration reduction
The lens delivers up to 6.5-stop*6 vibration reduction (VR) performance at the centre and edges of the frame when used with a camera that supports Synchro VR. This can help photographers:
- Shoot handheld for longer periods
- Reduce the effect of camera shake
- Work more flexibly when a tripod or monopod is not practical
Feature 4: Professional handling and durability
Designed for demanding shooting environments, the NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S features an internal focusing (IF) system and an internal zoom mechanism that maintain the overall length of the lens constant during focusing or zooming.
For greater handling flexibility, the lens supports Arca-Swiss screw-type quick-release tripod clamps*7 and features a tripod collar features a rubber cushion and integrated finger grip for improved portability. It also accommodates both front screw-on filters and rear slip-in filter holders, while the HB-120 Bayonet Hood, is designed for convenient attachment, removal, and storage.
A durable magnesium-alloy construction and extensive sealing provide superior dust- and drip-resistant performance*8, supporting reliable operation across a range of outdoor shooting environments.
The NIKKOR Z 120-300mm f/2.8 TC VR S has an RRP of AUD$23,699