NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II

During Nikon ATX 2026 in Austin, I had the opportunity to spend some time testing the Nikon Z8 paired with the NIKKOR Z24-120mm f/4 Lens and I came away genuinely impressed. The Nikon Z8 its a camera designed for professionals who need both power and versatility. The autofocus system is extremely fast and precise, locking onto subjects with remarkable reliability. Whether shooting people, movement, or environmental scenes, the camera responded quickly and confidently. The image quality is outstanding, with excellent dynamic range and color rendering that feels natural and balanced. The body itself is robust but still compact enough to remain comfortable during extended shooting sessions.Also paired with the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II, the setup becomes incredibly versatile. This lens delivers exceptional sharpness across the frame, even when shooting wide open at f/2.8. The contrast and clarity are immediately noticeable, and the bokeh is smooth and pleasing, making it equally capable for portraits, documentary work, and photojournalism. The build quality is also excellent, solid, precise, and clearly designed for professional use.What stood out the most was how well both pieces of equipment complement each other. The Z8 and the 24-70mm f/2.8 S together create a balanced system that feels fast, responsive, and extremely capable in real world shooting conditions. After testing this combination, it is easy to understand why many photographers consider the Z8 one of the most powerful mirrorless cameras currently available, especially when paired with Nikon’s top tier S line lenses. A truly impressive system.

High photo quality. Easy to use. I bought it for travel photography. Build quality is very high. Now I don’t have to keep three prime lens weight in my backpack. Maintains the Nikon quality.

Paired with my Z8 for still photography, I couldn't be happier. Cannot professionally attest to its capabilities for video, but the short sample videos I've made with this lens as a rank amateur have been incredible. Focus speed unlike any zoom lens I've ever used, and I've had many excellent Nikon lenses. Superb sharpness throughout all ranges at f/2.8. This lighter lens handles very comfortably. I use a side sling (over the hip) as I do with my larger birding lenses, but the lighter compact form of this lens would allow for comfortable neck sling carrying as well. Focus, zoom and aperture rings have a silky feel with just the right amount of tension.The click-ratchet feature on the custom control ring is precise feeling and keeps my sightings in place (I use it for aperture adjustment.) Bokeh: Superb. Flare and glare control: impressive, and I'm learning how to meter for interesting desired effects. This lens is already improving the quality of my images.