Many camera bodies and lenses have come to the forefront since the Nikon D850 was first announced in 2017, but none pair together quite as well as the D850 and Nikkor 24-70mm 2.8E ED VR. Here is why they are still a perfect pairing.
Photography is a field that demands precision, versatility, and uncompromising image quality. When it comes to achieving precision in the area of photography in which you practice, choosing the right camera and lens combination is crucial. Among the myriad options available to photographers, the Nikon D850 camera paired with the 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR NIKKOR lens stand out as a formidable duo that offers an exceptional range of features and capabilities. In this article, we will delve into the numerous benefits of using this camera and lens together, exploring the various areas of photography to which this combination is ideally suited.
The Camera
First released in 2017 yet still in production at the time of writing this article in 2023, the Nikon D850 boasts a 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor, which delivers stunningly detailed photographs even in challenging lighting conditions. The camera's impressive ISO range, from 64 to 25,600, ensures excellent low-light performance. Its robust build quality, weather-sealing, and ergonomic design make it a reliable choice for demanding environments. The D850 excels in both still photography and 4K UHD video recording, thanks to its advanced autofocusing system, fast continuous shooting speed, and a tilting touchscreen for easy navigation. The Nikon D850 remains a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts seeking top-tier image quality and versatility in a camera body.
The Lens
Dubbed as “Nikon’s Workhorse,” the high-performance AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR is the most widely used professional lens in the NIKKOR line. Fast, strong, and steady, this wide angle to medium telephoto zoom lens is an excellent choice for a wide variety of photographic scenarios. Constructed with high-quality Extra-Low Dispersion glass elements and a rugged build, this lens delivers impeccable sharpness and contrast, making it a preferred choice for professionals and enthusiasts seeking incredible image quality in a versatile zoom lens.
The Perfect Pair
From the above descriptions, it is clear that this camera body and lens pack a punch as standalone products. While this lens is a part of my kit, there is just no way that I will pack for a shoot and leave it behind.
It is easy to take this pairing for granted, because the best type of kit is the type of kit that you don’t need to think about too much while shooting. It just does what it's supposed to do: shoot high-quality images that meet and exceed your and your clients' expectations. All of my visual wishes are granted every time I press the shutter (okay, almost every time, but that’s on me). The D850 and 24-70mm work fantastically together in a wide range of scenarios, and there are many reasons why you might want to consider both camera and lens for your next camera upgrade in this price bracket.
Versatility
One of the key advantages of using the Nikon D850 camera and the 24-70mm f/2.8 VR NIKKOR lens together is their versatility. The 24-70mm focal length range is exceptionally adaptable, spanning from a wide-angle 24mm to a short telephoto 70mm. This versatility allows photographers to seamlessly transition between different styles of photography, making it suitable for landscapes, portraits, events, and more.
Low-Light Performance
Low-light photography presents unique challenges, but the Nikon D850 and the 24-70mm f/2.8 VR Nikkor lens are more than up to the task when paired together. With the lens's fast f/2.8 aperture combined with the D850's impressive high-ISO capabilities, photographers can confidently shoot in challenging lighting situations while preserving image quality. This makes this pairing an excellent choice for indoor events and weddings where lighting is unfavorable or outdoors at night shooting the Northern Lights.
Professional-Grade Build and Durability
Both the Nikon D850 camera and the 24-70mm f/2.8 VR NIKKOR lens are designed to meet the rigorous demands of professional photographers. They feature robust construction, weather-sealing, and durable materials, ensuring that they can withstand the requirements of outdoor photography in various weather conditions and challenging environments. This professional-grade build makes them a reliable choice for those who depend on their equipment in demanding situations. I live in Scotland where we often see four seasons in one day. It is good to be able to shoot without worry no matter the weather.
Autofocus Precision
The D850 inherited the precision autofocus system of the Nikon D5. The combination of the advanced in-camera autofocus system and the lens' fast f/2.8 aperture and speedy autofocus motor results in quick and accurate focusing. This precision is particularly beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects, making it well suited for sports and family photography. Whether you're tracking a sprinting athlete or photographing children at play, the D850 and 24-70mm lens combination will help you capture the decisive moment.
On-The-Go Companion
For all of you adventurers, documentary, and event photographers, the D850 and 24-70mm lens combination is an excellent choice. Its wide focal length range allows you to capture life on the go in various locations and lighting scenarios without the need to carry a bag full of lenses. This convenience simplifies your gear and ensures that you're ready to capture the magic of what is in front of you with ease. Additionally, the VR capabilities of the lens makes camera shake a distant memory.
Studio Shoots
Whether you're engaged in product photography or portraiture, this pairing delivers sharpness and high resolution, allowing you to capture fine details and create stunning images with ease. Of course, prime lenses are the go-to for product photography, however, the impeccable sharpness of this lens gives the option to shoot products and pin-sharp portraits with ease.
The Nikon D850 and the 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR NIKKOR lens are an unbeatable combination that, when combined, offer photographers an array of benefits across various photography genres. Their adaptability along with exceptional image quality, low-light performance, image stabilization, durability, and autofocus precision make them an excellent investment for both professional photographers and enthusiasts alike. When you pair Nikon's latest and arguably greatest DSLR with their sharpest ever midrange zoom, there really isn’t much not to like. Whether you're capturing high energy events, street portraits, or a storm rolling in on the horizon, this duo is guaranteed to help you achieve your photographic goals with precision and quality. To me, the Nikon D850 and 24-70mm lens are not just tools; they are reliable colleagues who help bring my photographic visions to fruition. The images in this article have been shot over the last few weeks and are just a small slice of what this dynamic duo are capable of.
Do you own either or both of these? What is your dream camera and lens to use?
Interesting. They are such a great combination of tools to work with.
I own this combo, the D850 and 25-70 delivers excellent image quality. I have looked at the Z8 and 24-120 lens combo and still I use my D850 as it just works. I am currently thinking I will wait till the Z8mk2 comes out before thinking of changing as I don’t think the image sensor in the Z8 has moved the bar far enough for me to want to spend the money on changing my entire Nikon set up at this stage.
The Z8 is a beautiful piece of equipment but like you say, nothing that changes a want to a need when you own the D850.
My go-to combo is pairing myD850 with the Nikon 18-200. I prefer the extra telephoto reach this lens provides, paired with the macro capabilities I can induce. I have the 28-105 and a 80-300 as well but won't need to pull either out of the bag usually.
Oh, I wholeheartedly agree that the DX lens combined with a FX body is probably not the ideal pairing. My preference is based purely on not having to switch out lenses on the spot. Unless I'm carrying full belt or backpack of my lenses, I'm willing to sacrifice the cropped images for the convenience.
I'm a Canon guy, but since it hit the market, I, along with a lot of others, gave the nod to the D850 as the best DSLR ever. If I had the budget, I would have switched to Nikon just for that camera.
Come on over! Its not too late.
Like I said, if my budget allowed it at the time, I would have jumped all over the D850. But, the photo piggy bank said nope. :-)
I had a D850 with the 70-200/2.8 E FL. That was the perfect combination for me. It’s an incredible camera, wish I could still afford one!
I have the 70-200 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR and whilst it is probably my favourite lens, I dont really use it all that often.
It is, indeed, an amazing lens; I used it for many years with my D700. Looking at my Lr catalog, it's tied with the also excellent 70-200 ED VR in historical usage.
I love the 70-200 too, have probably taken most of my favourite images with that lens but depending on the type of shoot, the 24-70 would be most likely to be pulled out the kit bag first.