The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens is an advanced telephoto lens featuring a bright, fast f/2.8 maximum aperture to benefit its use in difficult lighting conditions. The lens construction incorporates two fluorite elements and two ED (extra-low dispersion) elements, which help to minimize the overall lens weight and significantly reduce chromatic aberrations throughout the aperture range. Also improving image quality, a Nano Crystal Coat has been applied to lens elements to minimize ghosting and lens flare for maintained image contrast, clarity, and color neutrality. Protecting the advanced optical design is a front fluorine-coated meniscus glass element that, when paired with the weather-resistant magnesium alloy barrel, supports working in inclement conditions.

A Silent Wave Motor AF system produces fast, near-silent focusing performance that suits both stills shooting and movie recording which can instantly be manually overridden by simply turning the manual focus ring. Further contributing to photographing in fast-paced situations and difficult lighting, VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization compensates for the effects of camera shake by up to four shutter speed steps. Additionally, an electromagnetic aperture mechanism is integrated into the lens design to provide greater exposure control stability that is especially beneficial when working with faster continuous shooting rates.