Vibration Reduction Lenses

Over the years, the main players in the optical industry have introduced many enhancements for camera lenses. These changes have practically changed the lives of photographers. Vibration Reduction lens (VR lens) is one of such invention that has revolutionized the arena of digital photography.

Let’ have a look at what VR lenses do.

Taking photographs of moving objects has always been one of the main problems. Technically speaking, camera’s expose (controlled by the shutter speed) is what effected taking dynamic photographs. Since the quality of a dynamic photograph was fully based on the camera’s settings and photographer’s skills, there weren’t many quality dynamic photos produced.

VR lenses introduced the answer for this age old problem in photography. VR lens systems are able to sense movement horizontally and vertically. For this movement detection, VR lens uses a technology called gyroscopic sensors. The movements of the object are called vibration and a floating lens is used for nullifying this vibration. The floating lens is moved electromagnetically.

Although a VR lens provides you the best quality photographs of moving or dynamic objects, you should not use it every time. As an example, if your camera is tripod mounted and you are taking still photos, you should not use a VR lens. Using a VR lens will not give you the best quality still photos. If you are into still photography rather than dynamic, or underwater photography, then  a VR lens isn’t needed for the type of work you do.

If you are in constant need of VR lens for your photography, but cannot afford one, then there are a couple of alternative in hand. First of all getting to know and practice a good camera holding technique is the best solution available which cost you nothing. Additionally, you should have a good camera that will have lower shutter speeds that can be controlled manually.

There are many players in the VR lens market at the moment. Nikkon is one of the main producers of VR lenses and their product is usually considered more superior than the competitor’s.  The Nikkon VR lens is manufactured to suit other camera. This cross vendor compatibility is one of the main advantages when it comes to accessories of photography.

Since a VR lens is a delicate piece of equipment, it is necessary to take all precautions to keep it damage free. Incorrect handling of a VR lens can damage the floating lens, making it  unusable.