By technical editor Matt Allard:
At CP+ in Japan, Nikon were showing the soon to be shipping AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED wide-angle lens that is compatible with both full frame FX and DX crop sensor cameras. The fast f/1.8 maximum aperture allows for shallow depth of field shooting as well as making it ideal in low-light situations.
The lens provides a 94° angle of view (30mm, 70° equivalent on DX-format cameras), and has a minimum focus distance of 7.8″ (19.8cm) , allowing you to get close to your subject while isolating it from the background.
Two aspherical and two Extra-low Dispersion elements with Nano Crystal Coating reduce sagittal flare and chromatic aberration, producing sharp images throughout the frame. Nikon’s Rear Focusing System eliminates change in physical length of the lens when focusing. A Silent Wave Motor provides quick, near-silent autofocusing. A soft pouch and lens hood are included.
I was very impressed with this lens when I had a quick play with it at CP+. It was tack sharp and produced beautiful bokeh. Available from February 17th for $796.95US this lens is definitely one to take a closer look at.
