Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 300mm f/4D IF-ED lens. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the lens to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Figure 1: Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 300mm f/4D IF-ED Lens, showing its black barrel, gold accent ring, and integrated tripod collar.
Key Features
- ED (Extra-low Dispersion) Glass: Nikon developed ED glass to enable the production of lenses that offer superior sharpness and color correction by minimizing chromatic aberration. This ensures high-resolution and high-contrast images.
- Nikon Super Integrated Coating: An exclusive multilayer lens coating that helps reduce ghosting and flare to a negligible level, enhancing performance and ensuring superior color balance and reproduction.
- Internal Focusing (IF): This technology allows the lens to focus without changing its physical size. All internal optical movement is limited to the interior of the non-extending lens barrel, resulting in a more compact, lightweight construction and a closer focusing distance.
- Distance Information (D-type): This lens relays subject-to-camera distance information to compatible AF Nikon camera bodies, enabling advanced features like 3D Matrix Metering and 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash.
- Silent Wave Motor (SWM): Nikon's SWM converts "traveling waves" into rotational energy to focus the optics, enabling high-speed autofocusing that is extremely accurate and quiet.
- M/A Mode: This exclusive mode allows rapid switching from autofocus to manual operation with virtually no time lag, even during AF servo operation and regardless of the AF mode in use.
- Nine-blade Rounded Diaphragm: Achieves a natural and pleasing blur for out-of-focus elements (bokeh).
Setup
Attaching the Lens
- Ensure both the camera and lens are powered off.
- Remove the rear lens cap (LF-1) from the lens and the body cap from the camera.
- Align the mounting mark on the lens barrel with the mounting mark on the camera body.
- Rotate the lens counter-clockwise (when viewed from the front of the camera) until it clicks into place. Do not force the lens.
Removing the Lens
- Ensure the camera is powered off.
- While pressing the lens release button on the camera body, rotate the lens clockwise until it detaches.
- Replace the rear lens cap on the lens and the body cap on the camera to protect the internal components from dust.
Operating the Lens
Focus Mode Switch
The lens features an M/A (Autofocus with manual override) and M (Manual focus) switch. This switch is located on the side of the lens barrel.
- M/A: Select this mode for autofocus operation. You can instantly switch to manual focus by rotating the focus ring, even while autofocus is active.
- M: Select this mode for manual focus only. Rotate the focus ring to adjust focus.
Aperture Control
The aperture (f-number) controls the amount of light entering the lens and the depth of field. On D-type lenses, the aperture can be controlled via the camera body's command dial. Ensure the lens's aperture ring is set to its minimum aperture (f/32) and locked in place for camera-controlled aperture.
Built-in Lens Hood
This lens features a built-in, retractable lens hood. Extend the hood during shooting to reduce flare and protect the front element. Retract it for storage.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Lens
- Use a blower brush to remove dust and loose particles from the lens surfaces.
- For smudges or fingerprints, apply a small amount of lens cleaning solution to a clean microfiber cloth and gently wipe the lens in a circular motion from the center outwards.
- Never use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
Storage
When not in use, store the lens with both front and rear caps attached in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use the provided semi-soft case (CL-M2) for added protection during transport.
Troubleshooting
- Lens not attaching to camera: Ensure the mounting marks are aligned correctly and the lens release button is not stuck. Do not force the lens.
- Autofocus not working: Check if the lens is set to M/A mode. Ensure the camera's focus mode is set to AF. Verify that the lens and camera contacts are clean.
- Images are blurry: Check focus mode (M/A or M). Ensure shutter speed is appropriate for the focal length to avoid camera shake. Clean lens elements if smudges are present.
- Aperture not changing: For camera control, ensure the lens's aperture ring is locked at its minimum aperture (f/32).
If issues persist, consult your camera's user manual or contact Nikon customer support.
Specifications
| Product Dimensions | 8.78 x 3.54 x 3.54 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.17 pounds |
| Model Number | 1909 |
| Manufacturer | Nikon |
| Focal Length | 300 mm (Fixed) |
| Lens Type | Telephoto |
| Compatible Mountings | Nikon F (FX) |
| Closest Focusing Distance | 4.8 feet |
What's in the Box
- Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 300mm f/4D IF-ED Fixed Zoom Lens
- LC-77 Snap-on Front Lens Cap (77mm)
- LF-4 Rear Lens Cap
- CL-M2 Ballistic Nylon Semi-Soft Case
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Nikon website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
You can also find additional resources and contact information on the Nikon Store on Amazon.
