Designed for news, sports/action, wildlife and nature photographers, this innovative new lens is based on a new optical system that features four ED glass elements. Nikon's advanced VR technology overcomes one of the fundamental problems photographers face while photographing under conditions where it is difficult to hold the camera steady. VR technology eliminates image blur caused by camera shake, particularly when shooting in low-light conditions, allowing photographers to use shutter speeds up to three stops slower than they would ordinarily use to get sharp, well exposed images.

The VR technology in the AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G IF-ED lens offers users a choice of either Normal or Active mode. Normal mode detects camera shake when the lens is hand held and the photographer is on a stable base. The Active mode goes a step further to detect vibration caused by photographing from a moving platform, such as a car or a helicopter. Its VR system is smart enough to detect a panning motion and correct vibration on the vertical axis. Its new optical system features four ED glass elements that minimize chromatic aberration and produce high quality images. Through low dispersion characteristics the lens' color performance is enhanced by virtually eliminating secondary chromatic aberrations that are common to telephoto optics that do not include ED glass. This technology enhances image quality with added visible sharpness and contrast to the image.

In addition to VR technology and ED glass elements, the AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G IF-ED lens includes a selection of Nikon advanced technologies such as Manual/Automatic mode, Silent Wave Motor Technology (SWM) and G-Type design (aperture control exclusively from camera body). The AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G IF-ED lens also features Nikon's Silent Wave Motor technology. This innovative technology is highly regarded by professional photographers for its silent and fast autofocusing with superior accuracy and ultra-quiet operation. This technology is exclusive to Nikkor optics and is incorporated in a large assortment of lenses that bear the AF-S mark.