Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm F/2.8E ED VR

This Nikon zoom covers 24–70mm on full-frame cameras with the Nikon F mount. That span runs from wide interiors to short telephoto, so one lens serves weddings, events and documentary work. It also suits travel and everyday assignments that mix people and places.

The f/2.8 maximum aperture stays constant through the zoom, which helps when light drops at evening events and dim interiors. The trade-off is carrying weight.

Nikon introduced this lens in 2015. Check its F-mount fit and the space available in your kit before planning an assignment.

It weighs 2 lb 5.7 oz (1070 g). The body measures 3.46 in (88 mm) across and 6.08 in (154.5 mm) long.

Filters screw directly into the front thread, so any screw-in filter must match the 82mm size. A polariser for outdoor ceremony light therefore attaches without adapters.

The 24–70mm range offers varied framing at weddings and events. At 24mm it suits groups and interior views, with coverage determined by your position. At 70mm, a speaker or table detail occupies more of the frame from the same spot. Moving the camera changes perspective as well as framing.

The constant f/2.8 maximum aperture stays available throughout the zoom. At a given shutter speed, that opening can allow a lower ISO in dim venues. Zooming changes the composition, so a meter reading can still change with the scene. Depth of field also depends on focal length and focus distance.

At 70mm the f/2.8 opening also helps separate a subject from a busy background. A candid portrait at a crowded reception can keep the face clear while guests behind soften. How much the background blurs depends on distance as well as focal length, so move the subject off the wall when you can.

Closest focus is 1.2 ft (38 cm) at middle zoom settings. The wide and telephoto ends have longer minimum distances. Maximum magnification is 0.28x. This range can help with place cards, flowers and table settings. Leave room for light ahead of the lens and check focus on the important detail.

Built-in VR helps reduce blur from camera shake. This can assist handheld photographs of still subjects in dim venues. It does not freeze a moving person, so choose a shutter speed that suits their movement. Support is useful for a long fixed composition.

Nikon seals the lens against dust and moisture, which helps for outdoor ceremonies and street work in dusty or damp conditions. A fluorine coating on the front element makes cleaning easier. Fingerprints and smudges from a busy reception wipe away more easily.

A rotary ring controls the zoom by hand. There is no zoom lock switch. Check the selected focal length before a sequence and after changing position.

The optical design uses 20 elements in 16 groups. It includes three aspherical elements, two ED elements and one element that combines both types. Aspherical surfaces help correct distortion and spherical aberration. ED glass helps reduce coloured fringes along high-contrast edges, such as a dark suit against a bright window.