The realm of professional wildlife and sports imaging has been revolutionized by the introduction of the Nikon 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR, a remarkable piece of optical engineering that represents a significant milestone in telephoto lens development. This comprehensive analysis delves deep into every aspect of this extraordinary super-telephoto marvel, examining its revolutionary features, performance characteristics, and practical applications in demanding photographic environments.
Revolutionary Optical Engineering and Technological Breakthroughs
The development journey of this remarkable optical instrument began when Nikon first hinted at their ambitious plans in July 2012, subsequently followed by an official announcement in January 2013. After more than twenty-five years without updating their manual focus 800mm f/5.6 ED-IF model, Nikon finally introduced an autofocus variant that would reshape the landscape of super-telephoto imaging.
This groundbreaking lens marks several historic firsts for the Nikkor lineup, most notably being the inaugural telephoto lens to incorporate fluorite (FL) elements in its optical formula. While Canon had previously employed fluorite elements in their exotic super-telephoto designs, Nikon had historically reserved this advanced glass technology exclusively for medical and microscope applications. The introduction of fluorite elements represents a paradigm shift in Nikon's approach to telephoto lens construction, bringing benefits such as reduced chromatic aberration, lighter weight, and enhanced optical performance.
The sophisticated optical architecture consists of twenty individual lens elements meticulously arranged across thirteen distinct groups. Among these elements, two utilize fluorite glass technology while an additional two employ Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass formulations. This complex arrangement works synergistically to minimize various optical aberrations while maximizing light transmission and image quality across the entire zoom range.
Advanced coating technologies play a crucial role in the lens's exceptional performance. The proprietary Nano Crystal Coat works in conjunction with Super Integrated Coating to dramatically reduce ghosting and flare while simultaneously enhancing color reproduction and overall image clarity. These coating systems become particularly important when working in challenging lighting conditions where contrast and color accuracy are paramount.
The incorporation of Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology ensures whisper-quiet autofocus operation with exceptional precision and speed. This becomes invaluable when photographing wildlife subjects that might be startled by mechanical noise from traditional autofocus systems. The latest generation Vibration Reduction technology provides up to 4.5 stops of stabilization compensation, enabling handheld shooting in situations where tripod support might not be feasible or practical.
Electromagnetic Diaphragm Innovation: A Game-Changer in Lens Technology
In recent years, the advancement of camera lens technologies has opened up new possibilities for photographers and videographers. Among the most revolutionary innovations is the introduction of the "E" designation, which signifies the integration of an Electromagnetic Diaphragm Mechanism. This breakthrough marks a significant departure from the traditional mechanical aperture control systems that have dominated Nikkor telephoto lenses for decades. By eliminating the mechanical linkage levers in favor of electronic control, the electromagnetic diaphragm offers a level of precision, reliability, and consistency that was previously unattainable. The introduction of this mechanism represents not only a technological leap but also a shift in the way professional photographers approach fast-paced, high-demand shooting scenarios.
While conventional "D" and "G" type lenses have relied on mechanical components to operate aperture blades, the electromagnetic diaphragm operates with the precision of electronic signals. This departure from mechanical systems is crucial, especially when shooting at high frame rates, as it addresses numerous limitations of traditional aperture systems. The evolution from mechanical to electromagnetic diaphragm systems is poised to redefine how photographers approach continuous shooting, particularly in fields where split-second timing and exposure consistency are paramount.
The Evolution from Mechanical Aperture Systems to Electromagnetic Technology
To fully appreciate the innovation of the electromagnetic diaphragm, it is important to understand how traditional mechanical aperture systems operate. In "D" and "G" type Nikkor lenses, mechanical linkage levers are responsible for adjusting the aperture blades. This mechanical system is well-established but comes with its set of limitations. For instance, when a photographer is capturing high-speed action sequences, the aperture settings might fluctuate slightly from frame to frame due to the inherent mechanical tolerance in the system. These small variations can have significant effects on image quality, particularly in fast-paced environments where consistency is crucial.
The electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism replaces the mechanical linkages with an electronically controlled system that sets the aperture values. This shift to electronic control introduces a higher level of accuracy, providing photographers with consistent and predictable aperture settings for every frame. The precise electronic signals controlling the diaphragm allow the aperture to adjust more smoothly, offering a level of control and stability previously unattainable with traditional systems. The result is an enhanced shooting experience, especially when working in dynamic conditions that demand high frame rates or rapid focus changes.
Benefits of Electromagnetic Diaphragm in High-Speed Photography
One of the most significant advantages of the electromagnetic diaphragm is its ability to maintain consistent aperture settings during high-speed continuous shooting sessions. Traditional mechanical aperture systems can struggle with rapid adjustments, especially when shooting at the maximum frame rates of modern cameras. Small discrepancies in aperture setting can cause fluctuations in exposure, leading to unwanted variations in depth of field, exposure values, and overall image quality. These inconsistencies become particularly apparent when capturing fast-moving subjects, such as in sports, wildlife, or action photography.
With the electromagnetic diaphragm, every frame receives the same aperture setting, regardless of how fast the camera is shooting. This consistency ensures that the exposure remains uniform, even during long bursts of continuous shots. Additionally, the depth of field remains constant, which is critical for maintaining focus accuracy and preserving image sharpness in fast-moving sequences. The uniformity in aperture control ensures that the photographer has the predictability needed to capture each shot with the desired exposure characteristics.
Enhanced Exposure Consistency in Variable Shooting Conditions
In many professional photography environments, rapid adjustments to exposure are required due to changing lighting conditions or the need to switch between different shooting modes. Traditional mechanical aperture systems can struggle with these shifts, resulting in slight exposure inconsistencies from one frame to another. For example, when shooting in a fast-paced scene, such as a concert or a sports event, the lighting can change suddenly due to stage lights, shadows, or moving subjects. In these situations, the ability to maintain precise exposure settings is crucial to achieving the desired visual outcome.
The electromagnetic diaphragm excels in such variable shooting conditions. Because it uses electronic signals to control the aperture, it is far less susceptible to the mechanical inconsistencies that can occur in traditional systems. The aperture responds instantly to changes in the camera's settings, ensuring that each frame is exposed correctly. This feature is especially valuable in low-light environments or when shooting subjects with a broad range of lighting conditions. The system provides greater flexibility, allowing photographers to focus on their craft without worrying about fluctuating exposures.
The Role of the Electromagnetic Diaphragm in Video and Cinematic Applications
While the primary focus of the electromagnetic diaphragm is in still photography, its advantages are equally beneficial for video and cinematic applications. In the world of professional video production, maintaining consistent aperture control is essential for achieving smooth, cinematic footage. Changes in exposure during video recording can be disruptive, particularly when the subject is in motion or when a scene transitions between different lighting environments. Fluctuating aperture settings can lead to unwanted "jumping" in exposure, which can distract viewers and break the immersion of the footage.
The electromagnetic diaphragm provides a solution to this problem by maintaining a steady aperture setting throughout the duration of the recording. This consistency ensures that video footage remains smooth and visually coherent, even in the most dynamic environments. Whether shooting a fast-paced action sequence, a moving subject, or a scene with fluctuating light, the electromagnetic diaphragm allows filmmakers to focus on creative decisions without being hindered by technical limitations related to aperture control. For videographers, this innovation provides a reliable way to capture professional-quality footage without the risk of exposure inconsistencies.
Overcoming Traditional Aperture Challenges in High Frame Rates
High frame rate shooting, particularly in burst mode or for slow-motion capture, presents its own set of challenges for traditional mechanical aperture systems. As frame rates increase, the mechanical components in lenses can experience delays in aperture adjustments, leading to exposure inconsistencies. This becomes especially problematic when capturing rapid action or when the subject’s movement is erratic. Even slight changes in aperture between frames can cause noticeable differences in image quality, potentially resulting in shots that are overexposed or underexposed.
The electromagnetic diaphragm, however, is designed to overcome these issues. By using precise electronic control, it eliminates the mechanical delays associated with traditional systems. The aperture adjusts instantaneously, ensuring that every frame is exposed consistently, even at extremely high frame rates. This technological breakthrough allows photographers to capture high-speed sequences without worrying about fluctuating exposure or depth of field. Whether working with a camera capable of shooting 10 frames per second or 30 frames per second, the electromagnetic diaphragm ensures that each shot is consistent and accurate.
Comprehensive Technical Specifications and Design Philosophy
The lens incorporates a sophisticated mount system utilizing Nikon's F-Bayonet design, ensuring compatibility with both full-frame FX and crop-sensor DX format cameras. The 800mm focal length provides an angle of view measuring 3°10′ on full-frame sensors and 2° on crop sensors, delivering exceptional magnification capabilities for distant subjects.
The maximum aperture of f/5.6 represents an excellent balance between light-gathering capability and optical performance, while the minimum aperture of f/32 provides extensive depth of field control for specialized applications. The maximum reproduction ratio reaches 1/6.6x, enabling close-focus capabilities that extend the lens's versatility beyond distant subject photography.
Nine diaphragm blades create smooth, circular bokeh characteristics that enhance subject isolation and background rendering. The minimum focus distance of 5.9 meters allows for surprisingly close approach to subjects while maintaining the lens's exceptional optical performance characteristics.
Focus modes include comprehensive options ranging from full manual control to various automatic and hybrid configurations. The M/A mode allows manual override of autofocus decisions without switching modes, while the A/M setting prioritizes automatic focusing with manual fine-tuning capabilities.
The 52mm slip-in filter system provides convenient neutral density and protective filter mounting without requiring oversized front-mounted alternatives. This design choice significantly reduces the cost and complexity of filter systems while maintaining optimal optical performance.
Physical dimensions measure 160mm in diameter by 461mm in length, creating a surprisingly compact profile considering the lens's extensive focal length capabilities. The total weight reaches 4,590 grams, representing a remarkable achievement in weight optimization for such an extensive focal length.
Advanced Handling Characteristics and Ergonomic Considerations
Despite initial concerns about size and weight, the actual handling characteristics of this lens prove surprisingly manageable compared to other super-telephoto alternatives. The weight distribution represents a significant improvement over the 600mm f/4, with the center of gravity positioned more favorably for balanced handling on gimbal head systems.
At 4,590 grams, the lens weighs less than both the 600mm f/4 (5,060g) and the 400mm f/2.8 (4,620g), making it surprisingly practical for extended shooting sessions. The incorporation of lightweight fluorite elements in the front optical groups contributes significantly to this weight reduction while simultaneously improving front-to-back balance characteristics.
The reversed tripod foot position reflects this improved balance, indicating that the lens no longer suffers from the front-heavy characteristics that plagued earlier super-telephoto designs. This balance improvement makes the lens considerably easier to maneuver and track moving subjects, particularly when mounted on quality gimbal head systems.
Handheld operation, while certainly challenging due to the sheer focal length involved, proves more manageable than initially expected. Photographers accustomed to handheld operation of the 400mm f/2.8 will find similar handling characteristics, though extended handheld sessions will inevitably lead to fatigue requiring tripod support.
The single-piece HK-38 carbon fiber hood represents a significant practical improvement over the complex double-hood system used on the 600mm f/4. Installation requires only a single knob operation, making field deployment much more efficient and reducing the likelihood of lost components during equipment changes.
Professional Focus Control Systems and User Interface Design
The lens incorporates an extensive array of control switches and buttons designed to provide comprehensive focus control options for professional applications. The three-position focus mode switch allows selection between A/M (autofocus with manual override priority), M/A (manual focus with autofocus availability), and M (pure manual focus) operations.
A focus limiter switch provides options between FULL range focusing and ∞-10m limitation, significantly improving autofocus speed when photographing distant subjects. This limitation effectively doubles autofocus speed by eliminating unnecessary lens element movement during focus acquisition, particularly valuable when tracking distant wildlife or sports subjects.
The three-position VR (Vibration Reduction) switch offers OFF, NORMAL, and ACTIVE settings. NORMAL mode provides optimal stabilization for stationary shooting positions, while ACTIVE mode compensates for additional movement when shooting from unstable platforms such as boats or vehicles.
Four programmable buttons positioned around the focus ring provide customizable control options determined by the fourth switch position. AF-L setting locks focus at the current position, MEMORY RECALL returns to a previously stored focus position, and AF-ON forces autofocus re-engagement similar to camera back-button focus controls.
The manual focus ring operates with exceptional smoothness and precision, incorporating no hard stops at either end of the focus range. This continuous rotation design prevents damage during rapid focus adjustments while providing tactile feedback for precise manual focus control.
Optical Performance Analysis and Image Quality Characteristics
The optical performance of this lens represents the pinnacle of current telephoto design technology, delivering exceptional sharpness, contrast, and color rendition across all aperture settings. The complex twenty-element optical formula effectively controls various forms of optical aberration while maximizing light transmission efficiency.
Chromatic aberration control reaches exceptional levels thanks to the combination of fluorite and ED glass elements. Purple fringing, a common issue with long telephoto lenses, remains virtually eliminated even in high-contrast situations with bright backgrounds and dark foreground subjects.
Corner-to-corner sharpness remains consistently excellent across the entire image circle, with only minor softening visible in extreme corners when shooting wide-open at f/5.6. Stopping down to f/8 produces peak optical performance with exceptional detail resolution and microcontrast characteristics.
Bokeh quality demonstrates the smooth, creamy characteristics expected from a professional super-telephoto lens. The nine-blade diaphragm creates nearly circular out-of-focus highlights while maintaining smooth transitions between focused and unfocused image areas. Background rendering remains pleasantly smooth without distracting artifacts or harsh transitions.
Flare resistance proves exceptional thanks to the advanced coating systems employed throughout the optical formula. Even when shooting directly into bright light sources, the lens maintains excellent contrast and color saturation with minimal ghosting or flare artifacts.
Distortion remains virtually non-existent, as expected from a prime telephoto design. Geometric accuracy remains consistent across the entire image frame, making the lens suitable for applications requiring precise dimensional relationships.
Vibration Reduction Technology and Stabilization Performance
The latest generation VR system incorporated in this lens represents a significant advancement in optical stabilization technology, providing up to 4.5 stops of stabilization compensation under optimal conditions. This level of stabilization performance enables handheld shooting at shutter speeds previously requiring tripod support.
Normal VR mode optimizes stabilization for stationary shooting positions, automatically detecting and compensating for the various types of camera movement encountered during typical handheld operation. The system proves particularly effective for controlling the low-frequency movements that become increasingly problematic at extended focal lengths.
Active VR mode provides enhanced stabilization for shooting from moving platforms, automatically adjusting compensation algorithms to account for additional movement sources. This mode proves invaluable when shooting from vehicles, boats, or other unstable platforms where conventional stabilization might prove inadequate.
The VR system operates with exceptional quietness, avoiding the audible clicking or whirring sounds that characterize some stabilization systems. This silent operation proves crucial when photographing sensitive wildlife subjects that might be disturbed by mechanical noise.
Stabilization effectiveness varies with focal length when using teleconverters, though performance remains impressive even at extended effective focal lengths. The system automatically adjusts compensation characteristics based on attached teleconverter specifications, maintaining optimal performance across all focal length combinations.
Autofocus Performance and Tracking Capabilities
Autofocus performance represents one of the lens's most impressive characteristics, delivering exceptional speed and accuracy across a wide range of shooting conditions. The Silent Wave Motor system provides virtually instantaneous focus acquisition with subjects at moderate to long distances, making it ideal for capturing fleeting wildlife moments.
Focus tracking capabilities excel when following moving subjects, maintaining sharp focus even with erratically moving wildlife or fast-moving sports subjects. The electromagnetic diaphragm system contributes to this performance by eliminating mechanical delays that can impact focus tracking consistency during continuous shooting sequences.
Close-distance autofocus speed proves remarkably fast, though the shallow depth of field at f/5.6 requires careful subject positioning to ensure critical focus placement. At minimum focusing distance, depth of field becomes extremely shallow, often requiring stopping down to f/8 or f/11 to achieve acceptable subject coverage.
Long-distance autofocus accuracy can be impacted by atmospheric conditions, particularly heat haze and thermal distortion that become increasingly problematic at extended focal lengths. Under ideal atmospheric conditions, however, focus accuracy remains exceptional even at extreme distances.
The focus limiter switch dramatically improves autofocus speed when photographing distant subjects by eliminating unnecessary focus hunting in the close-focus range. This feature proves particularly valuable for wildlife photography where subjects rarely appear closer than the 10-meter limit setting.
Practical Field Applications and Shooting Scenarios
Wildlife photography represents the primary application for this lens, where the combination of extended focal length and exceptional optical quality enables intimate portraits of distant subjects without disturbing their natural behavior. The 800mm focal length provides sufficient magnification to fill the frame with medium-sized wildlife subjects at comfortable distances.
Bird photography benefits tremendously from the lens's capabilities, allowing detailed documentation of even small songbird species from respectful distances. The combination of focal length and optical quality enables feather detail resolution that rivals much closer approaches with shorter lenses.
Sports photography applications include situations where photographer positioning is severely restricted, such as motorsports, field events, or stadium sports where action occurs at significant distances from approved shooting positions. The lens's autofocus speed and tracking capabilities prove adequate for most sports applications, though extremely fast-moving subjects may challenge the system's limits.
Landscape photography applications exist for specialized situations requiring extreme telephoto compression effects or isolating distant landscape elements. The exceptional optical quality enables large print reproduction with remarkable detail resolution and tonal gradation.
Macro photography becomes possible at the minimum focusing distance, though the shallow depth of field at f/5.6 requires careful subject selection and positioning. Stopping down to smaller apertures enables acceptable depth of field for small subject documentation, though lighting requirements increase substantially.
Teleconverter Compatibility and Extended Focal Length Options
The lens ships with the TC800-1.25E teleconverter, providing 1000mm effective focal length while maintaining reasonable optical quality and autofocus capability. This teleconverter specifically designed for the 800mm lens provides better optical performance than using generic teleconverters with shorter focal length lenses.
Additional teleconverter options include the 1.4x and 2.0x models, though optical quality and autofocus performance degrade progressively with higher magnification factors. The 1.4x teleconverter provides 1120mm effective focal length with acceptable quality loss, while the 2.0x model reaches 1600mm with more significant compromises.
Autofocus capability remains functional with all teleconverter combinations on cameras supporting f/8 autofocus operation, though speed and accuracy decrease with increased magnification factors. Modern professional camera bodies handle these combinations adequately for most applications.
Image quality degradation follows predictable patterns, with contrast and sharpness declining progressively with increased teleconverter magnification. The 1.25x model provides the best balance of extended focal length and maintained optical quality, making it the recommended choice for most applications requiring additional reach.
Environmental Durability and Weather Resistance
Professional weather sealing throughout the lens construction enables reliable operation in challenging environmental conditions commonly encountered in wildlife and sports photography. The sealing system protects against moisture, dust, and temperature extremes while maintaining smooth operation of all moving components.
Temperature stability proves excellent across wide temperature ranges, with fluorite elements maintaining their optical characteristics despite significant temperature fluctuations. Field testing in environments ranging from sub-freezing conditions to extreme heat demonstrates consistent performance without focus shift or optical degradation.
Dust and moisture protection enables confident use in sandy, dusty environments or high-humidity conditions where equipment reliability becomes critical. The internal focusing design minimizes the risk of contaminant ingression during autofocus operation.
Physical durability construction withstands the inevitable bumps and impacts encountered during field use, though the lens's value and complexity demand careful handling and appropriate protective measures. Professional-grade construction materials and assembly techniques ensure long-term reliability under demanding use conditions.
Comparative Analysis with Alternative Super-Telephoto Options
Comparison with the 600mm f/4 reveals several important distinctions beyond the obvious focal length difference. The 800mm's lighter weight and improved balance characteristics make it more manageable for extended shooting sessions, while the electromagnetic diaphragm provides enhanced consistency during high-speed shooting sequences.
The single-piece hood design of the 800mm represents a significant practical advantage over the complex double-hood system of the 600mm, reducing setup time and eliminating the possibility of lost hood components during equipment changes.
Image quality comparisons reveal that the native 800mm design provides superior results compared to 600mm f/4 plus 1.33x teleconverter combinations, demonstrating the optical advantages of purpose-designed focal length versus teleconverter solutions.
Weight distribution and balance characteristics favor the 800mm for handheld shooting applications, despite the increased focal length that theoretically makes camera shake more problematic. The improved balance partially compensates for the increased focal length magnification of movement.
Cost considerations must account for the lens's limited production numbers and corresponding premium pricing, making it accessible primarily to professional photographers and serious enthusiasts with substantial equipment budgets.
Recommended Support Equipment and Accessories
Tripod selection becomes critical for maximizing the lens's potential, requiring heavy-duty carbon fiber or aluminum models capable of supporting the combined weight while maintaining stability during focusing and composition adjustments. Gitzo Systematic series tripods represent the gold standard for this application.
Gimbal head systems provide optimal support for tracking moving subjects while maintaining perfect balance regardless of camera orientation. The Wimberley WH-200 and similar models offer the smooth operation and precise balance required for professional applications.
Replacement tripod feet from Really Right Stuff or similar manufacturers provide improved Arca-Swiss compatibility and enhanced clamping security compared to the factory-supplied foot. These accessories integrate seamlessly with professional support systems.
Protective covers from LensCoat provide weather protection and improved grip characteristics while reducing the lens's visual profile when photographing sensitive wildlife subjects. These covers also provide thermal insulation when shooting in extreme temperature conditions.
Filter systems utilizing the 52mm slip-in design enable neutral density and polarizing filter use without requiring oversized and expensive front-mounted alternatives. This system maintains optical quality while providing essential creative and technical control options.
Professional Recommendations and Best Practices
Firmware updates prove essential for optimal performance with compatible camera bodies, addressing autofocus algorithms and electromagnetic diaphragm communication protocols. Regular firmware maintenance ensures continued compatibility with evolving camera systems.
Focus limiter switch utilization dramatically improves autofocus speed when photographing distant subjects, effectively doubling focus acquisition speed by eliminating unnecessary focus hunting in the close-focus range.
VR mode selection depends on shooting conditions, with Normal mode optimal for stationary positions and Active mode reserved for shooting from moving platforms or when additional stabilization proves necessary.
Aperture selection requires balancing depth of field requirements with optimal optical performance, typically requiring f/8 to f/11 for adequate subject coverage when photographing larger wildlife subjects at close to moderate distances.
Shutter speed selection must account for the increased focal length magnification of camera movement, generally requiring speeds faster than 1/focal length even with VR assistance for consistently sharp results.
Conclusion
The Nikon 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR represents a remarkable achievement in super-telephoto lens design, combining cutting-edge optical technology with practical handling characteristics that make it surprisingly accessible for professional applications. The incorporation of fluorite elements, electromagnetic diaphragm technology, and advanced stabilization systems creates a lens that sets new standards for telephoto performance.
While the significant investment required limits its accessibility to professional photographers and serious enthusiasts, those who can justify the expense will find a lens capable of producing extraordinary results across a wide range of demanding applications. The combination of exceptional optical quality, improved handling characteristics, and revolutionary technological features makes it a worthy addition to any serious telephoto lens collection.
For wildlife photographers seeking the ultimate in telephoto performance, this lens represents the current pinnacle of available technology. The ability to capture intimate wildlife portraits from respectful distances while maintaining exceptional image quality makes it an invaluable tool for serious nature documentation.
The lens's versatility extends beyond wildlife photography into sports, landscape, and specialized applications where extreme focal length combined with exceptional optical quality creates unique creative opportunities previously unavailable to photographers.
Future developments in camera technology, particularly improvements in high-ISO performance and autofocus sensitivity, will only enhance this lens's capabilities and expand its practical applications. As camera technology continues advancing, this lens represents a long-term investment that will remain relevant and capable for many years to come.