Create Compelling Photojournalism and Documentary Stories with NIKKOR Z Lenses

The key thing that sets photojournalism and documentary filmmaking apart from other photographic genres is their focus on newsworthiness. At its core, photojournalists and documentary filmmakers aim to educate and inform the public about current events and social issues. To effectively capture the nuances of these stories, you require tools that are as dynamic and adaptable as the subjects you pursue.

Enter the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S and NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S. Part of the NIKKOR Z S-Line f/2.8 trinity lenses, these versatile and robust lenses are ideal companions for creating impactful visual narratives.

Father and Young Children in 3rd World Village Photographed by Ami Vitale with Nikon NIKKOR Z f/2.8 S-Line Mirrorless Camera Lens | Nikon Cameras, Lenses & AccessoriesFather and Young Children in 3rd World Village Photographed by Ami Vitale with Nikon NIKKOR Z f/2.8 S-Line Mirrorless Camera Lens | Nikon Cameras, Lenses & Accessories

© Ami Vitale

Old Woman in doorway surrounded by hearts photographed by Ami Vitale with Nikon NIKKOR Z f/2.8 S-Line Mirrorless Camera Lens | Nikon Cameras, Lenses & AccessoriesOld Woman in doorway surrounded by hearts photographed by Ami Vitale with Nikon NIKKOR Z f/2.8 S-Line Mirrorless Camera Lens | Nikon Cameras, Lenses & Accessories

© Ami Vitale

A Powerhouse for Video Production

Photojournalistic and documentary environments are rarely controlled or predictable. From fast-paced breaking news scenes to documenting unfolding stories in remote locations, photographers need to be prepared for anything – the ability to anticipate and react quickly is essential.

The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S offers a highly versatile mid-range zoom with a broad focal range. This allows for seamless switching between capturing wide establishing shots that set the context, intimate medium close-ups that reveal emotions, and even telephoto-like compositions that draw viewers into the heart of the action

On the other hand, the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S telephoto lens excels at capturing distant details and emotions with exceptional clarity. This allows the capturing of intimate moments and tight compositions, even from afar. It is particularly useful when capturing action shots in fast-paced situations or maintaining a respectful distance during sensitive moments.

Both lenses also come designed with a well-balanced, comfortable form factor for easy handling. Their extensive weather sealing ensures they can withstand dust, moisture, and other challenging conditions, to endure the rigours of travel and daily use.

Woman riding a horse through the through surf of a remote beach photographed by Ami Vitale with Nikon NIKKOR Z f/2.8 S-Line Mirrorless Camera Lens | Nikon Cameras, Lenses & AccessoriesWoman riding a horse through the through surf of a remote beach photographed by Ami Vitale with Nikon NIKKOR Z f/2.8 S-Line Mirrorless Camera Lens | Nikon Cameras, Lenses & Accessories

© Ami Vitale

The Moment In Focus

Sharp focus is another essential element of storytelling in photojournalism and documentary work. It ensures viewers can clearly see the subject(s) and understand the visual message being conveyed.

Older woman working in Japanese factory photographed by Hideyuki Motegi with Nikon NIKKOR Z f/2.8 S-Line Mirrorless Camera Lens | Nikon Cameras, Lenses & AccessoriesOlder woman working in Japanese factory photographed by Hideyuki Motegi with Nikon NIKKOR Z f/2.8 S-Line Mirrorless Camera Lens | Nikon Cameras, Lenses & Accessories

© Hideyuki Motegi

Mechanical components made in a Japanese factory photographed by Hideyuki Motegi with Nikon NIKKOR Z f/2.8 S-Line Mirrorless Camera Lens | Nikon Cameras, Lenses & AccessoriesMechanical components made in a Japanese factory photographed by Hideyuki Motegi with Nikon NIKKOR Z f/2.8 S-Line Mirrorless Camera Lens | Nikon Cameras, Lenses & Accessories

© Hideyuki Motegi

The NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S boasts a multi-focusing system with two AF drive units precisely synchronised to deliver lightning-fast, accurate autofocus. This ensures definitive moments are captured in perfect clarity, even in the heat of the moment.

The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S features a built-in optical vibration reduction (VR) system, that is effective for up to 5.5 stops. This allows for handheld shooting even in challenging lighting conditions without camera shake blurring the image. Additionally, electronic VR (e-VR) provides even smoother video recording.

Furthermore, as S-Line lenses, which refers to the highest optical standards of the NIKKOR Z range, these lenses achieve exceptional sharpness through impressive aberration correction. They deliver images with virtually no flare, ghosting, coma, or chromatic, spherical and axial aberrations, even at the edges of the frame. This ensures crisp and evocative images that accurately represent the story being told.

The large f/2.8 aperture of both NIKKOR Z lenses also proves to be a game-changer. Shoot wide open with little to no-drop in sharpness thanks to the Z mount advantage. It allows faster shutter speeds for capturing sharp portraits even in low-light situations and creates beautiful bokeh —which can be used to isolate subjects in cluttered scenes and draw attention to the core elements of the story.   

Seamless Storytelling

Part of the Nikon’s S-Line lens line-up, these two NIKKOR Z lenses deliver superior performance and resolution. They are packed with sophisticated features and intuitive operability to meet your unique needs. 

Both lenses come equipped with at least one customisable function button on its barrel. This allows you to personalise your workflow by assigning essential functions like focus hold, depth-of-field preview, or focus magnification for quick access in the field.

To capture the dynamic nature of video storytelling, the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S features minimal focus breathing. This enables seamless transitions between focal lengths while maintaining sharp focus. Dynamically shift perspectives, from wide establishing shots to captivating close-ups, all with just one lens, without interrupting the narrative flow.

Complementing this versatility for cinematic videos, the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S also delivers clean and smooth video recording with minimal focus breathing and reduced wobbling as well for achieving professional-looking video footage.

Male wave-boarder performing a trick photographed by Chris McLennan with Nikon NIKKOR Z f/2.8 S-Line Mirrorless Camera Lens | Nikon Cameras, Lenses & AccessoriesMale wave-boarder performing a trick photographed by Chris McLennan with Nikon NIKKOR Z f/2.8 S-Line Mirrorless Camera Lens | Nikon Cameras, Lenses & Accessories

© Chris McLennan

Ultimately, your gear should enhance, not hinder, your storytelling. These NIKKOR Z lenses are indispensable tools that empower you to focus on your creativity without technical limitations. Their durability, versatility, and advanced features make them ideal companions for the demanding world of photojournalism and documentary filmmaking. However, it is your talent, experience, and unique perspective that will bring stories to life.