In challenging environments like the mountains, versatility in your gear is key. A lens that can handle a wide range of focal lengths gives you the flexibility to capture diverse scenes, all without the hassle of constant lens changes.
Coming to you from Nigel Danson, this engaging video explores the capabilities of Nikon's 28-400mm f/4-8 lens in the rugged terrain of the Dolomites. Danson is candid about the lens's strengths and limitations, offering a practical look at how it performs in real-world conditions. The lens’ focal range is impressive, making it a potential replacement for multiple lenses in your kit. However, it does have some drawbacks, such as its inability to go wider than 28mm, which might leave you needing a separate wide angle lens for broader shots. The f-stop range of f/4 at 28mm to f/8 at 400mm is sufficient for most landscape photography, though it might not be ideal in low-light conditions.
Danson takes the lens through its paces, comparing it to his go-to 24-120mm lens. He discusses how the 28-400mm lens stacks up in terms of sharpness and image quality, particularly at the extremes of its focal range. For instance, Danson notes that while the lens is sharp at 28mm, there’s some softness at 400mm, especially towards the edges.
The video also highlights the practical aspects of using a super-zoom lens in challenging environments. Danson appreciates the flexibility that the 28-400mm lens offers, especially when shooting in rapidly changing conditions. However, he points out that for those wide, expansive landscapes, you’ll still need a lens like the 14-30mm to capture everything in the frame. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Danson.
