Best Nikon Lenses in 2024: 14 Top Lenses For Your Nikon Camera

When transitioning from a smartphone or a point-and-shoot camera to a professional body, one of the main things newcomers need to be aware of is the importance of lenses.

When making a film, a good camera is only half the equation. The other half is the lens choice.

Much of the look and feel of a film will come from the lens.

However, As Canon’s rival, Nikon has a very wide first and third-party lens support, finding the right lenses may seem impossible. That’s why today we’re going to talk about the best lenses for Nikon cameras.

Now, selecting a lens isn’t just about finding the most expensive or highest specs lens out there.

More so, it’s about knowing what type of lens is the one most suitable for your needs.

So, today not only are we listing the best Nikon lenses, but we’re also discussing the things you need to consider before buying one yourself.

The Best Nikon Lenses

Let’s take a look at some of the best Nikon lenses that will push your filmmaking capabilities beyond the limitations of the camera.

1. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR

Optics and Image Quality

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR lens is a testament to Nikon’s commitment to delivering exceptional image quality.

The lens is constructed with six extra-low dispersion (ED) elements, one fluorite element, and one high refractive index element.

This intricate design minimizes chromatic aberrations and ensures images of remarkable clarity, contrast, and color accuracy.

The Nano Crystal and Super Integrated Coatings further enhance image quality by reducing lens flare and ghosting, even when shooting in backlit situations.

Vibration Reduction and Focusing

A standout feature of this lens is its Vibration Reduction (VR) system, which promises a shutter speed advantage of up to 4 stops.

This ensures sharper images when shooting handheld, especially in low light or at the telephoto end.

The lens also features a Silent Wave Motor (SWM), ensuring fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus.

For those moments when manual intervention is necessary, the manual focus override allows for seamless switching between autofocus and manual focus modes.

Build and Handling

Designed for professional use, the 70-200mm f/2.8E lens boasts a solid build that feels balanced and robust.

The lens is fully weather-sealed, protecting against dust, moisture, and the elements, making it an ideal companion for outdoor photography sessions.

The fluorine coating on the front and rear elements ensures that water droplets and dirt can be easily wiped off.

Additionally, the lens features an ergonomic design with intuitive controls, including customizable focus function buttons, making it easy to operate even when in the heat of the action.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR is a powerhouse of a lens, delivering stellar image quality, reliable performance, and robust construction.

It is a must-have for professionals and serious enthusiasts, particularly those into sports, wildlife, or portrait photography.

Whether you’re shooting in challenging light conditions or demanding outdoor environments, this lens won’t disappoint.

Its combination of optical excellence, effective vibration reduction, and ergonomic design make it one of the top choices in its class.

2. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G

Optics and Image Quality

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G is a prime lens that exemplifies Nikon’s prowess in optical engineering.

With an aspherical lens element, this lens effectively combats spherical aberrations and ensures crisp, clear images.

The f/1.8 aperture not only allows for significant light intake but also provides beautiful, creamy bokeh, making subjects stand out against softly blurred backgrounds.

This makes it especially valuable for portrait photography.

The color rendition and sharpness are impeccable, producing lifelike images with minimal optical distortions.

Autofocus Performance

Equipped with Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM), the lens guarantees quick, silent, and precise autofocus performance. This ensures that even fast-moving subjects can be captured with clarity. For those who prefer having control over their focus, the lens also provides a seamless manual focus override. This allows photographers to easily switch from autofocus to manual focus, offering flexibility in various shooting scenarios.

Build and Handling

The Nikon 50mm f/1.8G lens is lightweight and compact, making it a convenient addition to any photographer’s kit. Despite its modest size, it doesn’t compromise on build quality.

It feels sturdy and well-constructed, with a design that ensures easy handling.

The focus ring is smooth, enabling precise adjustments, and the lens mount is made of metal, ensuring durability.

While it’s not fully weather-sealed, the lens is reliable for everyday use and can withstand typical shooting conditions.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G is a versatile, high-quality prime lens that offers outstanding value for its price.

It delivers sharp, vibrant images with a pleasing bokeh, making it a favorite among portrait photographers.

Its fast aperture and reliable autofocus make it suitable for a range of situations, from street photography to events.

For those seeking a compact, reliable, and high-performing prime lens, the 50mm f/1.8G is a stellar choice and a worthy addition to any Nikon photographer’s arsenal.

3. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G

Optics and Image Quality

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is an outstanding prime lens designed for Nikon’s DX-format DSLRs.

As a “nifty fifty” equivalent for crop sensors, it offers a classic 50mm field of view, making it a versatile lens for various photography genres, including portraits, landscapes, and street photography.

Its wide f/1.8 aperture ensures excellent low-light performance and produces an appealing bokeh, enabling subjects to stand out against a blurred background.

Image sharpness is impressive, with great color reproduction and minimal chromatic aberrations.

Autofocus Performance

Equipped with Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM), the 35mm f/1.8G provides swift and silent autofocus, ensuring fleeting moments aren’t missed.

The autofocus is accurate, latching onto subjects with precision.

For photographers who wish to take control, the lens offers manual focus override, enabling easy transition between autofocus and manual focus modes.

This flexibility is particularly valuable when shooting in challenging or unpredictable conditions.

Build and Handling

The lens boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it a convenient companion for on-the-go photography.

Despite its portability, the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G doesn’t skimp on build quality.

The construction feels solid, and the focus ring offers a smooth rotation for manual focusing.

While it may lack the full weather-sealing of some of its pricier counterparts, the lens is robust enough for everyday shooting scenarios and can handle a bit of rough handling.

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is a must-have lens for any Nikon DX-format DSLR user.

Its combination of optical excellence, versatile focal length, and affordable price tag makes it a popular choice among both professionals and hobbyists.

The lens is particularly commendable for its sharpness and ability to render beautiful out-of-focus backgrounds.

Whether for portraits, landscapes, or general photography, this lens is a reliable performer that consistently delivers outstanding results.

 

 

4. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED

Optics and Image Quality

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED is one of Nikon’s standout wide-angle zoom lenses, often hailed as one of the best in its class.

Designed for both full-frame and crop-sensor cameras, it covers an ultra-wide to moderately wide focal range.

The lens exhibits exemplary sharpness throughout its zoom range, even at its widest aperture.

Chromatic aberration, often a concern in wide-angle optics, is remarkably controlled.

The lens also boasts minimal distortion for such a broad field of view, and its Nano Crystal Coat effectively reduces flare and ghosting, ensuring crisp images in challenging light.

Autofocus Performance

Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM) drives the 14-24mm f/2.8G, delivering fast and accurate autofocus.

Even in low-light conditions, where wide-angle lenses can sometimes struggle, this lens finds focus with ease.

The manual focus override allows photographers to make precision adjustments without switching out of autofocus mode, providing a seamless blend of automation and control.

Build and Handling

Weighing in at around 1 kg, the 14-24mm f/2.8G is solidly built, reflecting its professional-grade design.

The construction is robust, with a metal barrel and high-quality plastics, reaffirming its place in Nikon’s professional lens lineup.

Its fixed, petal-shaped hood protects the bulbous front element, though this design does mean that attaching standard screw-on filters isn’t an option.

However, photographers will appreciate the lens’s weather-sealing, ensuring performance even in adverse conditions.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED is an exceptional lens, epitomizing the best in wide-angle zoom capabilities.

For professionals and serious enthusiasts who demand top-tier optical performance, this lens is undoubtedly a worthy investment.

Its ability to produce sharp, distortion-free images across its focal range sets it apart.

While it might be on the heavier side and lacks the capability for standard filters, its optical brilliance and sturdy build make it an indispensable tool for landscape, architecture, and interior photographers.

5. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G

Optics and Image Quality

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G is an exquisite portrait lens, synonymous with outstanding optical performance.

This prime lens produces sharp, crystal-clear images with beautifully rendered out-of-focus backgrounds, thanks to its wide f/1.4 aperture.

Bokeh enthusiasts will revel in the creamy, dream-like quality of the backgrounds, making subjects pop.

The lens ensures superb color rendition and contrast, while effectively controlling chromatic aberration and flare, even when shooting wide open.

Autofocus Performance

Equipped with Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM), the autofocus operation of the 85mm f/1.4G is swift and near-silent.

This makes it an excellent choice for not only still photography but also video work where noise can be a concern.

The lens locks onto subjects with precision, ensuring tack-sharp results.

Additionally, its manual focus override feature provides photographers with the flexibility to make on-the-fly adjustments without having to shift out of autofocus mode.

Build and Handling

The 85mm f/1.4G is a testament to Nikon’s dedication to producing robust, professional-grade lenses.

With its sturdy build, combining metal and high-quality plastics, it feels solid and durable in hand.

Its weight and size balance well with most Nikon DSLRs, ensuring comfortable shooting during extended periods.

Moreover, it incorporates a weather-sealed design, guarding against dust and moisture, which is a boon for photographers working in unpredictable environments.

The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G is a lens that truly shines in the realm of portrait photography.

Its ability to deliver exceptionally sharp images, coupled with the dreamy bokeh, makes it a favorite among professionals.

While it comes at a premium price point, its performance, build quality, and the artistic possibilities it offers make it worth every penny.

For those committed to achieving unparalleled results in portrait work, event photography, or any scenario demanding a fast prime lens, the 85mm f/1.4G is a stellar choice.

6. Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S

Optics and Image Quality

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S is a standard zoom lens designed specifically for Nikon’s full-frame mirrorless Z system.

It’s no surprise that this lens has been celebrated for its impeccable sharpness across the zoom range.

The f/2.8 aperture provides consistent exposure and depth of field control throughout its zoom span.

Colors are vibrant and true to life, while chromatic aberration, distortion, and vignetting are minimal, thanks to the advanced optical design featuring several specialized elements.

Autofocus and Stabilization

Incorporating a multi-focus system, the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S offers rapid and precise autofocus.

The stepping motor ensures that the focus adjustments are smooth and virtually silent, a significant advantage for videographers.

Coupled with the Z series cameras’ in-body image stabilization, the lens provides commendable stability, allowing users to shoot at slower shutter speeds without the fear of introducing handshake blur into their photos.

Build and Handling

Built with professional use in mind, the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S boasts a sturdy and durable construction.

The lens is weather-sealed to protect against dust and moisture, allowing photographers to work in less than ideal conditions confidently.

A unique feature is the customizable control ring, which can be set to adjust aperture, exposure compensation, or focus, catering to personal shooting preferences.

Additionally, the OLED information display panel on the lens barrel is a handy tool for quickly verifying settings at a glance.

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S is an outstanding performer and a must-have for Z system users.

With its exceptional optical performance, robust build quality, and innovative features, it firmly establishes itself as a versatile workhorse suitable for various photography genres, from landscapes and street photography to events and portraiture.

While it’s priced on the higher side, the quality and performance justify the investment.

This lens stands as a testament to Nikon’s commitment to delivering top-tier optics for their mirrorless system.

7. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR

When versatility is key in a filmmaking arsenal, we can’t overlook the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3G ED VR.

Its extensive zoom range positions it as a powerhouse for filmmakers who need to capture a multitude of perspectives without swapping lenses.

Beyond its vast zoom capabilities, this lens packs a punch with its Vibration Reduction (VR) technology.

The feature ensures steady shots even when handheld, crucial for dynamic filming situations where a tripod isn’t an option.

Its lightweight design means we can shoot for extended periods without fatigue becoming a factor.

Agile in nature, this lens aids in capturing those fleeting moments that are often unreachable with heavier equipment.

With a variable aperture ranging from f/3.5 to f/6.3, this lens adapts to diverse lighting conditions with ease.

It allows us to maintain visual quality across the zoom range which is paramount when shooting scenes that require consistent look and feel.

The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm comes with:

• Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass to minimize chromatic aberration
• A Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for quiet autofocus, a necessity on quieter sets

Investing in a lens that provides such a wide breadth of shooting opportunities is a savvy decision for us in the filmmaking field.

Its adaptability enhances our capability to execute a creative vision with fewer limitations.

Engineered with a combination of Advanced optics and practical features, this all-in-one lens embodies flexibility.

It’s an indispensable tool for those who aim to capture the essence of a story from every conceivable angle.

Confidently, we incorporate this remarkable piece of gear into our kit, welcoming the convenience it brings to our on-the-go production lifestyle.

It’s more than a lens; it’s a companion that meets the rigorous demands of contemporary filmmaking.

8. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR

In our quest to uncover the finest glass for your filmmaking projects, we can’t overlook the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR.

This powerhouse is a quintessential pick for professional filmmakers who demand top-notch performance and versatility.

Known for its exceptional sharpness and constant aperture of f/2.8, the lens excels in a variety of lighting situations.

Its robust build quality ensures it can withstand the rigors of on-location shooting, making it a reliable companion for any shoot.

The optics of this lens are simply stellar, with Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass cutting down on chromatic aberration and an Aspherical lens element reducing distortion.

Such features are vital when capturing high-resolution footage where every detail counts.

Incorporating Vibration Reduction (VR) technology affords us the advantage of up to four stops of stability.

This is especially useful for dynamic shooting conditions where tripods or stabilizers aren’t feasible.

Filmmakers prioritize smooth, silent autofocus for not disrupting a scene.

Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor (SWM) delivers precisely that, ensuring our shots are both tack-sharp and uninterrupted by mechanical noise.

Key Specs & Features Include –

• Constant f/2.8 Aperture
• Vibration Reduction Technology
• Silent Wave Motor for Quiet Autofocus
• Nano Crystal Coat Reducing Flare and Ghosting

Beyond specifications, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR lens performs remarkably in the field.

Whether shooting a documentary or a stylized narrative, its focal range covers wide-angle to medium telephoto, encapsulating everything from expansive landscapes to intimate portraits with ease.

This lens doesn’t just fulfill expectations; it often surpasses them, truly elevating our craft to new heights.

9. Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S

The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S isn’t just a standard prime lens.

It’s a storytelling tool that boasts remarkable clarity and a creamy bokeh that we often seek in our visual narratives.

Crisp details and beautiful focus fall-off set this lens apart.

Whether we’re capturing close-ups or shooting an entire scene, it shines through.

Its f/1.8 aperture performs marvelously in low light.

Let’s say we’re shooting indoors or during the magic hour; this lens ensures our footage remains bright and consistent.

What really excites us is its superior autofocus.

The stepping motor is whisper-quiet, vital when recording dialogue or nuanced sound.

Let’s not overlook its build quality and handling – – Sleek and lightweight design

• Sturdy construction that holds up during rigorous shoots
• Intuitive ergonomics making adjustments on the fly a breeze

As filmmakers, we can’t ignore a lens that provides such creative versatility.

This lens handles everything from interviews to cinematic sequences with ease.

The Nikon Z 50mm f/1.8 S is more than an optic.

It’s a gateway to visual excellence without compromise, adaptable to our ever-evolving styles and projects.

We find it an essential companion.

Especially when shot diversity and depth are paramount to the story.

And thankfully, it delivers performance that far exceeds expectations every single time.

10. Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G

Our exploration of best Nikon lenses wouldn’t be complete without the Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G.

It’s a compact macro lens that offers life-size 1:1 magnification and sharp details.

Macro lenses are essential for filmmakers who jump into the world of the tiny and the details that make scenes pop.

This lens stands out for its ability to bring the smallest subjects into the frame with stunning clarity.

The NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G is ideal for close-up shots where precision is key.

Its short minimum focus distance allows for a closer connection with the subject, essential in capturing those fine details.

Paired with its silent wave motor (SWM), the autofocus is smooth and quiet.

Here’s what makes it a top pick for our video work –

• Fast and accurate autofocusing – The ability to capture detailed shots without disturbing the scene

Boasting a lightweight design, this lens is a joy to carry on long shoots.

Its versatility makes it perfect for a range of shooting scenarios, from product close-ups to nature scenes.

With its f/2.8 aperture, the lens performs admirably in lower light settings.

the bokeh produced in out-of-focus areas adds a cinematic quality that enhances the visual storytelling.

Whether you’re shooting your latest short film or a commercial product spot, the Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G is a tool that should be on your radar.

For those who are serious about the minutiae of their craft, this lens is an ally in the production arsenal.

11. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR

Venturing into the world of wildlife and sports filmmaking often requires a lens with phenomenal reach and clarity.

Here’s where the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR steps in to offer uncompromised versatility and precision.

This telephoto zoom lens is a powerhouse for filmmakers who need to capture fast-moving subjects from a distance without losing sharpness or detail.

The lens features an impressive constant aperture of f/5.6, ensuring consistent exposure settings across the entire zoom range.

It’s this uniformity that allows for seamless transitions when changing focal lengths during a shot.

The built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) technology provides a four-stop advantage, crucial for nailing steady footage, especially in low-light situations or when shooting handheld.

In terms of optical performance, we’re looking at top-notch image quality across the frame.

The lens utilizes Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements to minimize chromatic aberrations and ensure superior contrast.

To make sure our claims aren’t just words, let’s consider these aspects:

• The lens allows for a minimum focusing distance of 7.22 feet, permitting close-ups even when you’re not physically near the action.
• With its Silent Wave Motor (SWM), the autofocus operation is both quick and nearly silent – vital when capturing wildlife without disturbance.

But, it’s not just wildlife videography where this lens excels.

Events like sports tournaments and action sequences benefit immensely from the lens’s reach and image stabilization.

It gives us the flexibility to maintain a safe distance while still being in the middle of the action.

The nine-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh effect, adding a cinematic quality to the shots.

Carrying this lens around is made slightly easier thanks to its relatively compact size, considering its long reach.

But let’s not forget to factor in the weight; at nearly 5.

07 pounds, it’s not the lightest option available.

Even though that, its sturdy construction and weather-sealed design make it a reliable companion for outdoor shoots.

If versatility and the ability to zoom are at the top of your list, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR might just be the lens to transform your filmmaking capabilities.

12. Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S

When considering top-tier lenses for filmmaking, the Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S cannot be overlooked.

Its fast aperture and advanced optics provide us with the ability to capture stunning, cinematic shots even in low-light conditions.

Boasting a robust build, this lens integrates seamlessly with Nikon’s mirrorless system.

The f/2.8 constant aperture ensures consistent exposure settings across the entire zoom range which is essential for maintaining visual consistency in our films.

Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) technology is yet another standout feature – it lets us shoot handheld scenes with remarkable clarity.

We’ll find this especially useful during intense action sequences or while filming in dynamic environments where setting up a tripod is not feasible.

The autofocus on the Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S deserves high praise for its speed and precision.

It’s nearly silent, which is a critical consideration for us when audio integrity matters as much as visual quality in our storytelling.

Here are some key characteristics:

• Minimum focusing distance of 0.5 meters
• Weather-sealed design for resilience in adverse conditions Leveraging the lens’s short telephoto to telephoto range, we’re empowered to tackle a wide variety of scenes. The ability to adjust focal lengths without sacrificing image quality or aperture size is invaluable when our shooting schedule is tight and flexibility is non-negotiable.

Our experience with this lens proves it a worthy investment for filmmakers who demand high optical performance and versatility.

It’s as much at home on the sidelines of a sports event as it is capturing the subtle emotions of characters in a dramatic scene.

13. Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED

Diving into the world of prime lenses, we can’t overlook the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED.

Its impressive f/1.4 maximum aperture excels in low-light situations and provides a shallow depth of field, making it a go-to for filmmakers seeking that cinematic look.

The lens delivers exceptionally sharp images with minimal distortion, which is a testament to its superior design and glass quality.

The 24mm focal length is perfect for capturing expansive scenes without the need to step back, a feature that’s particularly useful in tight spaces.

Its autofocus is fast and accurate.

Credit goes to Nikon’s Silent Wave Motor that ensures we don’t miss a beat during those critical shoot moments.

Plus, the manual focus override option gives us creative control when we need it most.

Durability is also a key factor with the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED – it’s designed to withstand the rigors of regular use.

The lens comes with a weather-sealed construction that stands up to demanding shooting environments, allowing us to shoot with confidence regardless of the weather.

Key features of this lens include:

• Wide f/1.4 aperture for low light and depth of field control – Superior sharpness and minimal distortion
• Fast, silent autofocus with manual override
• Robust and weather-sealed construction

In the realm of video production, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED lens provides an edge in creating atmospheric and immersive footage.

It’s a worthwhile investment for cinéastes who prioritize optical excellence and versatility in their storytelling arsenal.

14. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR

For filmmakers looking to capture expansive landscapes or tight interior shots, the Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.

6G VR is an exceptional choice.

Its ultra-wide-angle zoom range is perfect for adding an impressive sense of scale and depth to your shots.

What sets this lens apart is its Vibration Reduction (VR) technology.

Even when shooting handheld, the VR helps us achieve steady, sharp footage, crucial for maintaining high production values.

The AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm is a fantastic addition for Nikon filmmakers who need a reliable wide-angle option.

We’ve found its portability to be a huge advantage when we’re on the move, and its lightweight design makes it easy to carry alongside our other equipment.

We particularly appreciate the smooth, near-silent autofocus system that the AF-P motor offers.

It’s an excellent feature for anyone recording video, as it minimizes disturbance to the audio track – a detail that cannot be overstated in its importance.

Some of the key features of this lens include –

• Ultra-wide-angle perspective
• Steady footage with Vibration Reduction
• Lightweight and portable design
• Quiet autofocus system suitable for video recording

This lens isn’t just about broad vistas; it also gives us the flexibility to explore creative perspectives in our narrative and documentary projects.

Its versatility can open up new visual storytelling possibilities that we might not achieve with other lenses.

 

 

Buying Guide

Lens Compatibility

Nikon makes two types of DSLRs. The first is the smaller APS-C sensor format also called DX models.

The second is the larger full-frame sensor known as FX body. Thankfully, most Nikon lenses will work on both types of cameras.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that the DX sensor creates what’s called a crop factor. This makes the angle of view smaller.

This is not to say this is a fault of the DX cameras, it’s just how they work due to the smaller sensor size. Some videographers love this quirk.

You can use Nikon’s telephotos, macro lenses, and portrait lenses on both their DX and FX cameras without much disruption.

However, for wide-angle standard zoom cameras, it’s better to get lenses made specifically for your camera’s sensor size. Otherwise, you won’t get the desired angle of view.

Focal Length

How much coverage do you want your lens to do? Ask yourself this before you buy a lens. The focal length is measured in Millimeters.

The bigger the number the smaller the physical space a lens can cover.

Don’t be afraid to get lost in all the numbers, you can usually categorize the focal lengths in certain ranges.

Lenses that are 25mm or are somewhere in this ballpark have the widest coverage.

You can capture scenery in full or a body within a physical space. And this is a good focal length for those shooting landscapes or architecture.

42.5mm or so is what we’d call medium range. For cinematographers, this is what they’d use for a medium shot or a medium close-up.

You can capture the head and shoulders of your subject. This is good for making a subject stand out in a frame.

Finally, we have 60/70mm focal length. This is perfect for shooting close-ups. You can focus on the intimate details of your subject.

Things like facial features or the finer details of an inanimate object really stand out in this focal length.

Aperture

Aperture tells you how fast a lens is. It also lets you know the amount of light allowed into the lens. Aperture is measured in f-numbers like f/3.5 or f/4.

• The larger numbers indicate a slower aperture.
• The smaller the number, the more light a lens can take in and the better it performs in low-light situations.

So yes, the bigger the F-number the slower the camera will be. Usually, lens kits will have apertures around f5.6.

This is simply too slow and will make your shooting experience less than optimal.

You’ll notice that most of our lenses range at 1.8, this offers the fastest and best performance especially, in low-light conditions.

Autofocus

The faster the autofocus the more it’ll cost you. Therefore, most people prefer to have average autofocus at a reasonable price.

Just ensure that the autofocus isn’t slow or loud so it neither infuriates you nor distracts you.

With time you may even give up on autofocus and switch manual focus which allows you to control the focus system by rotating the ring on the lens.

Best Nikon Lenses – Wrapping Up

This concludes our comprehensive guide on the best Nikon lenses for novice filmmakers.

While you’ll hear that professionals only use expensive high-end lenses, the truth is most of them carry affordable lenses that are effective for their needs.

Remember that the best lens for you is the one that’s versatile enough (if you need that), compact in design for easy handling.

Hopefully, by now you’ll have a better idea of what Nikon lenses do and how to pick out the best one for you.

So what are you waiting for? Save up your money on buying a whole roster of lenses you may never need and pick the ones you want to work with and have fun experimenting.
 

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