Fast-Aperture Telephoto Zoom. The Nikon 120-300mm f/2.8E AF-S FL ED SR VR provides a portrait to short-tele focal range, making it perfect for sports photography. With an DX-sensor camera, you’ll have a focal length equivalent to 180-450mm, giving you an even more reach. The relatively fast f/2.8 aperture offers some shallow depth of field, while allowing you to keep shooting even when the lights get dim.

Vibration Reduction. The built-in vibration reduction provides up to four stops of correction for minimizing camera shake at slower shutter speeds and producing sharper results when shooting hand-held. Sport Mode is ideal for shooting in fast-paced environments, while Tripod Mode minimizes ground vibrations when you’re shooting on a support system.

Silent Wave Autofocus Motor. The Silent Wave motor provides fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus, which is great for stills and video alike. You also get full-time manual focus override for further precision adjustment, and an internal-focusing design to help ensure maximum sharpness.

Advanced Optics. The 120-300mm features a redesigned 19-group/25-element optical system that includes 2 fluorite elements, 1 short-wavelength refractive element, and 1 extra-low dispersion element. ARNEO and Nano Crystal coatings help keep ghosting, reflections, and flares at bay, while multiple elements include a Super Integrated Coating to ensure consistent color accuracy.

Electromagnetic Diaphragm Mechanism. Nikon’s electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism gives you consistent exposures even when you’re shooting at fast continuous rates, while the rounded nine-blade diaphragm produces pleasing bokeh.

Durable Build. This lens’s dust- and moisture-resistant build means that you can shoot in inclement conditions without worry, while its front element’s fluorine coating helps protect it from smudges, fingerprints, and debris.