Nikon 35mm f/2D AF Review

The Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens is a prime lens that was developed for use with Nikon DSLR cameras. It is both adaptable and high-performance. This lens’s combination of a short telephoto focal length and a large aperture makes it an excellent choice for a broad range of photographic applications, including street photography, landscape photography, and documentary photography.

Because of its small size and low weight, it has a very portable design, which makes it easy for photographers to transport it from place to place. Let’s now get into the specifics of each facet of this lens in order to have a better understanding of its potential as well as its limits.

Key Specs

• Mount Type: Nikon F-Bayonet
• Focal Length: 35mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/2
• Minimum Aperture: f/22
• Format: FX/35mm
• Maximum Angle of View (DX-format): 44°
• Maximum Angle of View (FX-format): 62°
• Maximum Reproduction Ratio: 0.24x
• Lens Elements: 6
• Lens Groups: 5
• Diaphragm Blades: 7
• Super Integrated Coating: Yes
• Autofocus: Yes
• Minimum Focus Distance: 0.85 ft. (0.25m)
• Focus Mode: Auto, Manual
• Filter Size: 52mm
• Accepts Filter Type: Screw-on
• Approx. Dimensions (Diameter x Length): 2.5 in. (65 mm) x 1.7 in. (44.5 mm)
• Approx. Weight: 7.2 oz. (205 g)

Performance:

Outstanding performance is delivered by the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens, which is capable of creating photos that are crisp, detailed, and have good contrast. Because of its large f/2 aperture, it is possible to photograph in low-light circumstances while still retaining an exceptional level of image quality. The lens has low levels of both distortion and chromatic aberration, which allows for depictions of scenes that are realistic and faithful to the real world.

Because the autofocus mechanism is both rapid and exact, it enables the subject to be acquired in a manner that is both speedy and accurate. This lens performs wonderfully, producing images that are consistent and trustworthy regardless of whether you are attempting to photograph things that are moving quickly or shooting in difficult lighting circumstances.

Autofocus System

The autofocus mechanism of the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens is exceptionally effective and dependable. It makes use of a technology known as Silent Wave Motor (SWM), which ensures that the focusing process is both quick and silent. This function is very helpful for photographers who are working in circumstances where noise might be a distraction, such as when they are photographing gatherings or weddings. The autofocus mechanism latches onto things with pinpoint accuracy and maintains fine focus even while shooting moving subjects.

However, it is essential to keep in mind that this lens does not have a built-in autofocus motor; as a result, it must rely on the autofocus motor of the camera in order to achieve automated focusing. Because of this, it is possible that certain older or entry-level Nikon DSLR cameras will not support autofocus when used in conjunction with this lens. Instead, they will require manual focus. As a result, before to buying this lens, it is important to ensure that it is compatible with the camera you intend to use.

Vibration Reduction

Vibration Reduction (VR) technology is not included in the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens in any way. The VR feature, which helps to reduce the effects of camera shake and is often present in telephoto lenses, enables clearer handheld photography. It is crucial to keep in mind that this lens is a wide-angle prime lens, which is designed to be used primarily for photography at faster shutter speeds and wider apertures. Although the lack of VR may be perceived as a disadvantage by certain photographers, it is vital to keep in mind that this lens.

In the vast majority of shooting situations, the broader field of view and quicker aperture of this lens makes up for the fact that it does not have VR. In addition, the use of a tripod or an increase in the ISO settings can assist in generating clearer photographs, which is helpful if you are concerned about camera shake. It is not anticipated that the lack of VR in the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens will have a substantial influence on the lens’ overall performance for the majority of shooters.

Build Quality

The Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens has a sturdy build quality that was built to survive frequent usage as well as challenging shooting circumstances. Its sturdy design assures that it will be durable and long-lasting, which makes it a trustworthy partner for photographers of all skill levels, from amateurs to professionals. The lens barrel is constructed from high-quality materials, which results in a grip that is both secure and pleasant. Because the lens mount is made of metal, the connection between the lens and the camera body is quite reliable.

A weather-sealed construction has also been incorporated into the lens, which serves to protect it from dust and moisture. Because of this, it may be used for photography in a variety of circumstances, including those with a little rain or dust. Users of the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens report feeling more confident and reliable as a result of the lens’ overall construction quality.

Handling and Ergonomics

Because of its small size and low weight, the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens is a pleasure to work with and to transport from place to place. When coupled to a Nikon DSLR camera that is compatible with it, its compact dimensions and light weight contribute to a configuration that is well-balanced. The lens has a manual focus ring that is nice and smooth so that you can make adjustments to the focus easily and without any discomfort.

Tactile feedback is provided via the aperture ring, which makes it possible to make adjustments to the aperture settings easily. Manual focusing may be done quickly and easily thanks to the lens’s depth-of-field markings and distance scale, both of which are included in the design. Because the ergonomics of the lens as a whole have been thoughtfully designed, using it will be an enjoyable experience overall.

Image Stabilization

As was previously noted, the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens does not come equipped with an internal image stabilization mechanism. This may be a drawback for handheld photography in low-light circumstances or when using slower shutter speeds; nevertheless, the wide f/2 aperture of this lens helps to compensate for the absence of stabilization to a certain extent. Because of the larger aperture, more light is able to enter the lens, which in turn allows for quicker shutter rates and reduces the likelihood of motion blur produced by camera shake.

Additionally, using a camera body that includes in-body image stabilization (IBIS) in conjunction with the lens can give additional benefits for image stabilization. The Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens nevertheless produces exceptional image quality and can be utilized effectively for handheld photography in a range of scenarios. This is true despite the fact that the lens does not include an internal image stabilization mechanism.

Shooting Experience

For photographers, shooting with the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens offers a great experience in all aspects of the activity. Because the lens has a wide-angle focal length of 35mm, it is capable of capturing a wider perspective, making it an excellent choice for shooting landscapes, environmental portraiture, and street photography. The quick aperture of f/2 makes it possible to photograph in low-light circumstances, which opens up more creative possibilities and lessens the requirement for high ISO settings.

The autofocus technology of the lens functions wonderfully, allowing for precise and rapid focus acquisition. Photographers who like manual focusing have access to fine control thanks to the manual focus ring on their cameras. In general, using the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens makes for a pleasant, easygoing, and satisfying experience when taking photographs.

Image Quality

Excellent image quality is provided by the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens, which is capable of taking photos that are crisp, detailed, and have vivid colors and contrast. The lens has a low level of distortion, which allows for renderings of scenes that are realistic and faithful to the original. It also has excellent chromatic aberration management, which helps to reduce color fringing in areas with strong contrast. The quick aperture of f/2 helps to create a lovely blur in the background (known as bokeh), and it also enables a short depth of focus, which highlights the subject against a backdrop that is blurred.

The lens works exceptionally well over its entire aperture range, delivering high-quality images in a variety of shooting conditions because of its adaptability. Whether a photographer is interested in photographing landscapes, environmental portraiture, or daily situations, the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens provides exceptional picture quality that is certain to satisfy even the most critical eye.

Teleconverter Compatibility

Teleconverters cannot be used with the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens because of a compatibility issue. Teleconverters are add-on components that are placed in front of a lens in order to extend its focal length. It is not possible to put teleconverters on the lens since the lens does not have a lens element that can be removed, and it does not have the appropriate electrical connectors.

As a result, the focal length of the lens will not change from its default setting of 35 millimeters; hence, photographers who want to achieve greater magnification or reach will need to look into other lenses or alternate solutions. In spite of the fact that the lens is not compatible with teleconverters, which may restrict its versatility in terms of focal length range, the lens still provides outstanding performance at the focal length for which it was designed, making it a good option for wide-angle photographic tasks.

Comparison with Competitors

It is essential to take into account both the benefits and drawbacks of the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens when evaluating it in comparison to other lenses in its class. Images that are crisp, detailed, and exhibit very little distortion may be obtained using this lens, which performs remarkably well in terms of picture quality. Its fast aperture of f/2 enables photography to be done in low-light circumstances and generates an aesthetically attractive background blur. On the other hand, in comparison to more recent lens models, the 35mm f/2D AF lens is lacking in a number of contemporary features, such as image stabilization and an autofocus motor.

These qualities are available in other lenses that are priced similarly to the 35mm f/2D AF lens. In addition, there are substitute lenses available from other manufacturers. These lenses provide focal lengths and characteristics that are comparable to those of the original lens, giving photographers a diverse selection of possibilities from which to select. When making a purchase choice, it is vital to take into consideration individual shooting preferences, the restrictions of one’s budget, and specific requirements in order to decide the lens that would serve one’s needs the best.

Specifications

Mount Type	Nikon F-Bayonet
Focal Length	35mm
Maximum Aperture	f/2
Minimum Aperture	f/22
Format	FX/35mm
Maximum Angle of View (DX-format)	44°
Maximum Angle of View (FX-format)	62°
Maximum Reproduction Ratio	0.24x
Lens Elements	6
Lens Groups	5
Diaphragm Blades	7
Super Integrated Coating	Yes
Autofocus	Yes
Minimum Focus Distance	0.85 ft. (0.25m)
Focus Mode	Auto, Manual
Filter Size	52mm
Accepts Filter Type	Screw-on
Approx. Dimensions (Diameter x Length)	2.5 in. (65 mm) x 1.7 in. (44.5 mm)
Approx. Weight	7.2 oz. (205 g)

Pros and Cons

The Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens provides photographers with a number of benefits and advantages. Because of its diminutive size and low weight, it has a great degree of portability, making it simple to transport and employ in a variety of shooting scenarios. The lens has a fantastic picture quality, allowing for the capture of photographs that are crisp and detailed, with vivid colors and very little distortion.

The versatile f/2 wide aperture gives a lot of shooting options, including the ability to photograph in low-light circumstances and the creation of lovely background blur. In addition, the lens has a sturdy build quality, which assures not only its longevity but also its dependability, making it suited for usage in challenging conditions.

Price and Availability

Photographers who are seeking a flexible wide-angle prime lens will find that the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens is priced affordably, giving it a choice that is within their price range. The lens is readily accessible at a variety of authorized Nikon dealers as well as internet marketplaces, making it simple for prospective purchasers to get it.

Before making a purchase, it is wise to examine both the current market pricing and the availability of the item, given that market prices and stock levels are subject to variation. Additionally, for photographers working with a limited budget, taking into consideration both new and used solutions might give cost-effective possibilities to choose from.

Conclusion

The Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens is a wide-angle prime lens that is dependable and high-performance, and it delivers great image quality, along with portability and cost. Because of its large f/2 aperture, it carries out exceptionally well even in low-light settings, and creates a lovely blur effect in the background. Despite the fact that it is lacking in certain contemporary technologies, such as image stabilization and an autofocus motor, it is nevertheless capable of producing remarkable results in a wide range of shooting conditions.

The Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens is a strong pick that will help you create amazing photographs thanks to its outstanding image quality and adaptable focal length. Whether you are a landscape photographer, street shooter, or documentary enthusiast, this lens will assist you in capturing stunning images.

Nikon 35mm f/2D AF FAQs

Q. Is the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens compatible with my Nikon DSLR camera?
A. The lens is compatible with Nikon DSLR cameras that have a Nikon F-Bayonet mount. However, it’s important to note that some entry-level or older Nikon DSLR models may not support autofocus with this lens due to the absence of an autofocus motor in the lens itself. In such cases, manual focus will be required.
Q. Does the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens have image stabilization (VR)?
A. No, this lens does not have built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) technology. However, its wide f/2 aperture allows for faster shutter speeds, which can help reduce the impact of camera shake. Additionally, if your camera body has in-body image stabilization (IBIS), it can provide some stabilization benefits when using this lens.
Q. Can I use filters with the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens?
A. Yes, the lens has a 52mm filter thread, which means it can accept screw-on filters. You can attach various types of filters, such as UV filters for lens protection, polarizing filters for controlling reflections, or neutral density filters for long-exposure photography.
Q. What is the minimum focus distance of the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens?
A. The lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.85 ft. (0.25m), which allows you to get reasonably close to your subjects for detailed close-up shots or intimate compositions.
Q. Is the Nikon 35mm f/2D AF lens suitable for low-light photography?
A. Yes, the lens’s wide f/2 maximum aperture makes it well-suited for low-light photography. The larger aperture allows more light to enter the lens, enabling faster shutter speeds and reducing the need for high ISO settings. This makes it easier to capture sharp and well-exposed images in challenging lighting conditions.