1. Overview
The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Zoom Lens is a high-performance, fast-aperture wide-angle to medium telephoto zoom lens optimized for both Nikon FX (full-frame) and DX (APS-C) format image sensors. It is engineered to deliver exceptional sharpness, contrast, and color, making it suitable for a wide range of photographic applications.
- Focal Length Range: 24-70mm, providing versatile coverage from wide-angle to standard telephoto.
- Minimum Focus Distance: 1.2 ft (0.38 m), allowing for close-up shots.
- Exceptional Low Light Performance: The constant f/2.8 maximum aperture ensures bright images and excellent performance in challenging lighting conditions.
- Advanced Optical Design: Features 15 elements in 11 groups, including 3 Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements, 3 aspherical lenses, and 1 Nano Crystal Coat. These elements control chromatic aberrations, enhance sharpness and contrast, and reduce ghosting and flare.
- Silent Wave Motor (SWM): Enables ultra high-speed autofocusing with exceptional accuracy and quiet operation.
- Internal Focus (IF): Provides fast and quiet autofocusing without changing the length of the lens, maintaining subject-working distance through the focus range.
- Rugged Construction: Designed with professional-grade dust and moisture resistance for durability in various environments.
2. Setup
2.1 Attaching the Lens
- Ensure your camera is turned off.
- Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear lens cap from the lens.
- Align the mounting mark on the lens barrel with the mounting mark on the camera body.
- Rotate the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks into place. Do not force the lens.
2.2 Detaching the Lens
- Ensure your camera is turned off.
- While pressing the lens release button on the camera body, rotate the lens clockwise until it detaches.
- Attach the body cap to the camera and the rear lens cap to the lens to protect them from dust and damage.
2.3 Attaching the Lens Hood (HB-40)
The HB-40 Lens Hood helps to prevent stray light from entering the lens, reducing flare and ghosting, and also offers protection to the front element.
- Align the mounting mark on the lens hood with the lens hood alignment mark on the lens.
- Rotate the hood clockwise until it clicks into place.
2.4 Detaching the Lens Hood
- Rotate the hood counter-clockwise until the mounting mark on the hood aligns with the lens hood alignment mark on the lens.
- Remove the hood.

Figure 1: The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Zoom Lens.
3. Operating the Lens
3.1 Focus Mode Switch
The lens features a focus mode switch with two settings:
- M/A (Autofocus with Manual Override): Allows for quick switching from autofocus to manual focus by rotating the focus ring. This is ideal for fine-tuning focus after the camera has achieved initial autofocus.
- M (Manual Focus): For full manual control of focusing. Rotate the focus ring to adjust focus.
3.2 Zooming
To change the focal length, rotate the zoom ring on the lens barrel. The focal length can be adjusted from 24mm (wide-angle) to 70mm (telephoto).
3.3 Aperture
This lens features a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8 across the entire zoom range. This allows for consistent exposure settings and excellent depth-of-field control, regardless of the focal length selected.

Figure 2: Example photograph demonstrating the lens's image quality.
4. Maintenance
4.1 Cleaning the Lens
- Use a blower brush to remove dust and loose particles from the lens surface.
- For smudges or fingerprints, apply a small amount of lens cleaning fluid to a clean microfiber cloth and gently wipe the lens in a circular motion.
- Never use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals on the lens.
4.2 Storage
- When not in use, attach the front and rear lens caps.
- Store the lens in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- If storing for extended periods, use a desiccant to prevent mold and mildew.
5. Troubleshooting
5.1 Autofocus Issues
- Ensure the focus mode switch on the lens is set to M/A.
- Check that the camera's autofocus settings are correctly configured.
- In very low light, autofocus may struggle. Try using a brighter light source or switching to manual focus.
5.2 Image Quality Concerns
- Clean the front and rear elements of the lens.
- Ensure the lens is securely attached to the camera body.
- Check camera settings such as ISO, shutter speed, and aperture for optimal exposure.
6. Specifications
| Product Dimensions | 5.24 x 3.27 x 3.27 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.36 pounds |
| ASIN | B000VDCT3C |
| Item Model Number | 318089 |
| Date First Available | November 24, 2003 |
| Manufacturer | Nikon |
| Brand | Nikon |
| Focal Length Description | 24-70 mm |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 1.2 ft (0.38 m) |
| Lens Type | Standard Zoom |
| Compatible Mountings | Nikon F (FX) |
| Lens Construction (Elements/Groups) | 15/11 (3 ED glass elements, 3 aspherical lenses and 1 Nano Crystal Coat) |
7. What's in the Box
- AF-S FX NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Zoom Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras
- HB-40 Lens Hood
- LC-77 Snap-on Front Lens Cap
- LF-4 Rear Lens Cap
- CL-M3 Semi-soft Case
8. Official Product Video
Video 1: An official overview of the Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8G ED AF-S Nikkor Wide Angle Zoom Lens by DPReview, highlighting its features and capabilities.
9. Warranty and Support
This product includes a full 14-day hassle-free satisfaction guarantee and a 90-day parts and labor warranty. For further support or service inquiries, please refer to the official Nikon support channels or contact your retailer.





