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Nikon AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR

The Nikon 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR is a 120–300mm f/2.8 lens designed for Nikon F mount cameras. Used copies start from $5,412.46 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Nikon AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR

Nikon AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR

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Lens OverviewNikon 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR

The Nikon AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR is a full-frame telephoto zoom lens built for Nikon F-mount DSLRs. Covering a focal length range of 120mm to 300mm, it sits firmly in the telephoto category and is designed to serve professionals who need reach without sacrificing light-gathering capability. The constant maximum aperture of f/2.8 across the entire zoom range is one of its defining characteristics, allowing photographers to maintain consistent exposure settings whether shooting at 120mm or pulling all the way to 300mm.

This makes it particularly well-suited for situations where light levels vary or subject isolation through shallow depth of field is a priority. The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus operation, giving shooters flexibility depending on the shooting scenario. Optical image stabilization is built in, which can help manage camera shake at the longer end of the zoom range.

Designed for full-frame coverage, it pairs naturally with Nikon FX-format camera bodies. The 112mm filter thread is notably large, which is expected at this aperture and focal length range. At 3,250g, this is a substantial piece of glass that demands proper support in the field.

Key FeaturesNikon 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR

120-300mm f/2.8 Zoom: Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture across the full zoom range ensures consistent exposure and depth of field control whether shooting at 120mm or 300mm.

Fluorite (FL) Elements: Fluorite lens elements reduce chromatic aberration and help keep the optical formula lighter than traditional glass alternatives at this aperture.

ED Glass Elements: Extra-low dispersion glass minimizes color fringing and improves contrast and sharpness throughout the zoom range.

SR (Short-Wavelength Refractive) Element: Nikon's SR element corrects secondary spectrum chromatic aberration, particularly beneficial when shooting subjects with high contrast edges.

Vibration Reduction (VR): Built-in optical image stabilization compensates for camera shake at longer focal lengths, supporting handheld shooting in difficult lighting conditions.

Electromagnetic Aperture (E): Electronic aperture control enables precise, consistent exposure during high-speed continuous shooting sequences.

Lens SpecificationsNikon 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR

Nikon 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesSports, Wildlife, Birding
Lens TypeTelephoto
FormatFull Frame
Zoom/PrimeZoom
Focal Length120–300mm
Maximum Aperturef/2.8
Camera SystemDSLR
Lens MountNikon F
AutofocusYes
Focus TypeAuto, Manual
Image StabilizationOptical
Filter Thread112mm

DescriptionNikon 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR

The Nikon AF-S 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR is a full-frame telephoto zoom lens designed for Nikon F-mount DSLR cameras. It spans a 120mm to 300mm focal length range while maintaining a constant f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout — a significant advantage for photographers who need consistent exposure and depth-of-field control across the zoom range. The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus, giving users control over how they acquire and track subjects.

Built-in optical image stabilization provides an additional tool for managing camera shake, particularly relevant when working at the 300mm long end. The 112mm filter thread reflects the physical scale of a lens built to deliver f/2.8 at 300mm, and the 3,250g body weight means this lens is best paired with solid support when used in the field. Designed for DSLR systems and full-frame coverage, it is a dedicated tool for professionals operating within the Nikon F ecosystem.

ProsNikon 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR

  • Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture maintained across the full 120-300mm zoom range
  • Full-frame (FX-format) coverage suits professional DSLR bodies without cropping concerns
  • Built-in optical image stabilization helps control camera shake at longer focal lengths

ConsNikon 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR

  • At 3,250g, the lens is very heavy and will require a sturdy tripod or monopod for extended use
  • The 112mm filter thread means standard filters are expensive and harder to source
  • Nikon F mount is a legacy DSLR system, limiting compatibility with Nikon's mirrorless lineup without an adapter

VideosNikon 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR

Hands On with the Nikon D6 | Nikkor 120-300mm F2.8TECH360.TV

Resources & DownloadsNikon 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked QuestionsNikon 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR

What camera mount does this lens use?+
This lens is built for the Nikon F mount, making it compatible with Nikon F-mount DSLR cameras. It is designed specifically for the DSLR camera system.
Does this lens cover full-frame sensors?+
Yes, the lens is specified as Full Frame format, meaning it provides complete image circle coverage for Nikon FX-format DSLR bodies without vignetting.
What is the zoom range of this lens?+
The lens covers a focal length range of 120mm to 300mm, placing it in the telephoto zoom category and making it suitable for distant subjects such as sports, wildlife, and events.
Does this lens have image stabilization?+
Yes, the lens includes optical image stabilization, which can help reduce the effects of camera shake, particularly useful when shooting at the longer end of the 300mm range.
What filter size does this lens require?+
The lens has a 112mm filter thread. Filters of this size are significantly larger and more expensive than standard sizes, so factor this into your accessory budget.
How heavy is this lens?+
The lens weighs 3,250g, making it one of the heavier telephoto zooms available. Most photographers will want to use a monopod or tripod for comfortable shooting sessions.

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