Nikon Releases Two New Lenses: 24mm f/1.4G and 16-35mm f/4G VR

In a not too shocking announcement, Nikon has announced two new lenses to be added to their line-up of FX-compatible lenses. The Nikkor AF-S 24mm f/1.4G ED prime lens is will surely become a favorite among wedding photographers and other low-light photographers. This lens will now finally offer Nikon photographers a fast, wide-angle, and affordable prime compared to the much fabled Nikkor AF 28mm f/1.4D, at a fraction of the price. Canon has longed had a 24mm f/1.4 (now a version II) in their line-up. This lens, with it’s 9-blade diaphragm, will no doubt be a great performer as the Nikkor AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8G ED already is. The estimated cost will be around $2,199.95 and won’t be available until late March 2010.

On the other spectrum, Nikon has released a more *affordable* wide-angle zoom, also for FX-format, and billed as a “general photography” lens, the Nikkor AF-S 16-35mm f/4G ED VR will offer some nice wide-angle and zoom in a lighter package than the current Nikkor 17-35mm f/2.8D IF-ED and the Nikkor AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G ED. Personally I favor fast lenses, but having Vibration Reduction/Image Stabilization is quite nice for this lens and will aid in hand-holding slower shutter speeds, but VR/IS will not stop action. This lens will retail for $1,259.95 and be available in late February 2010.

Both lenses are professional grade quality and will stand-up to repeated rugged use. You can read Nikon’s full press-release here (PDF). You can also find more details at DPReview.com for the 24mm and the 16-35mm, respectively.