Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S Review

A high-performance prime lens, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens was explicitly created for use with mirrorless cameras from Nikon’s Z-series. This lens is ideal for a wide variety of photographic styles, such as landscapes, portraits, street photography, and settings with low light because of its adjustable focal length and fast aperture. It delivers excellent image clarity and a superior shooting experience by combining cutting-edge optical technology with solid build quality in its construction.

In the following paragraphs, we will discuss the many facets of the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens, including its performance, autofocus system, build quality, image stabilization, shooting experience, image quality, compatibility with teleconverters, comparison with other lenses in its class, pros, and cons, as well as its price and availability.

$846.95 13 used from $540.00 16 new from $846.95
in stock
Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S

Key Specs

  • Focal length: 35mm
  • Maximum aperture: f/1.8
  • Minimum aperture: f/16
  • Lens construction: 11 elements in 9 groups
  • Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements: Yes
  • Nano Crystal Coating: Yes
  • Minimum focusing distance: 0.25m (0.82 ft.)
  • Autofocus: Yes
  • Autofocus motor type: Stepping Motor (STM)
  • Vibration Reduction (VR): Yes
  • Image stabilization: Up to 4 stops
  • Diaphragm blades: 9 (rounded)
  • Filter size: 62mm
  • Weather sealing: Yes
  • Compatible camera mount: Nikon Z-mount
  • Dimensions: Approx. 73.0mm (diameter) x 86.5mm (length)
  • Weight: Approx. 370g (13.1 oz.)

Performance

Outstanding performance that satisfies the requirements of both professional photographers and photography amateurs is provided by the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens. Its wide maximum aperture of f/1.8 enables superb low-light performance, allowing photographers to produce photos that are clear and detailed despite the adverse lighting situations they may be working in.

The lens is built with innovative optics from Nikon, incorporating elements of Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass and a coating called Nano Crystal Coating. These features help to reduce chromatic aberrations, flare, and ghosting while retaining a high contrast level and accurate color. This produces photographs that have an excellent level of sharpness, clarity, and color vibrancy.

Autofocus System

The Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens features lightning-quick, pinpoint-precise, and dependable autofocus technology that makes it well-suited for both still photography and video recording. It has a multi-focusing system with numerous AF drive units that all work together in synchronization to help you gain focus as quickly and accurately as possible.

Because the lens makes use of a silent stepping motor (STM), which assures smooth and quiet autofocus operation, it is excellent for shooting in settings where noise needs to be limited, such as during weddings or live performances. This makes the lens an excellent investment for anybody interested in photography. The autofocus is quick to respond and successfully follows subjects, which results in photographs that are crisp with very little user input. In addition, the lens has a full-time manual focus override, which enables photographers to make precise changes manually even when the autofocus feature is active on their camera.

Vibration Reduction

Vibration Reduction (VR) technology is incorporated into the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens, and as a result, the lens is capable of providing image stabilization of up to 4 stops. While shooting handheld in low-light circumstances or while utilizing slower shutter speeds, this function is quite helpful. It offers a number of advantages.

Because the VR system can adjust for camera shake, it enables photographers to take photographs that are more crisp and clear by reducing the amount of blur. Additionally, it improves the steadiness of the picture in the viewfinder, which makes it much simpler to compose photographs precisely. The VR performance of this lens is outstanding, and it substantially improves the options for shooting handheld in a variety of scenarios, such as while working with longer focal lengths or in low-light conditions.

Build Quality

The Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens features a robust construction quality that is meant to resist the rigorous use that is required in the photography industry. Because of its dust- and moisture-resistant construction, which is protected by its weather-sealed design, you may use it to take pictures even when the weather is unfavorable. The lens barrel is constructed from high-quality materials, giving it a feel that is both sturdy and long-lasting.

The control and focus ring both have enough damping, which makes for smooth operation and contributes to a pleasing overall shooting experience. Additionally robust, the lens mount guarantees a safe and sound connection to the body of the camera. The overall build quality of this lens instills trust and reliability, which enables photographers to concentrate on taking beautiful photos without worrying about the lens’s capacity to withstand wear and tear.

Handling and Ergonomics

The Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens prioritizes the ease of use and comfort of the photographer or videographer who operates it. It is convenient to take around because of its small size and low weight, making it an excellent choice for usage while traveling or in day-to-day life. The lens possesses a pleasant grip that enables the user to maintain a steady and balanced hold on the camera.

The control structure is straightforward, with the focus and control rings situated in areas that are simple to reach in order to facilitate speedy modifications. Additionally, the control buttons on the lens are programmable, giving photographers the ability to assign certain tasks based on their individual preferences about shooting. The ergonomics of the lens as a whole help to provide a smooth shooting experience, which enables photographers to concentrate on their artistic expression and take pictures that are true to their vision without any distractions.

Image Stabilization

Vibration Reduction (VR) is an optical image stabilization feature that is incorporated into the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens. This feature significantly lessens the adverse effects that are caused by camera shake. This function is particularly helpful for photographers who are shooting handheld or in low-light circumstances since it enables them to utilize shorter shutter speeds without compromising the clarity of their images.

The image stabilization provided by this lens’s VR technology allows for up to four stops of adjustment, which results in steadier photos and less dependency on tripods and other types of image stabilization. The image stabilization of this lens provides footage that is smoother and more stable, eliminating the undesirable effects of camera wobble whenever it is used, whether for the recording of films or the taking of still photographs.

Shooting Experience

Because of its remarkable performance and user-friendly design, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens provides a shooting experience that is exceptionally delightful for the photographer. Photographers are able to swiftly lock onto their subjects and capture memorable moments thanks to the lens’s fast and precise autofocus. The depth of field may be controlled creatively thanks to the wide maximum aperture of f/1.8, which also offers gorgeous bokeh in the background and allows for subject isolation.

As a result of the lens’s ability to generate images that are both crisp and excellently sharp from edge to edge, it is suited for use in professional settings. The lens has a focal length of 35 millimeters, which allows for a realistic perspective and makes it suitable for a wide variety of photographic styles, such as landscapes, portraits, and street photography. The Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens provides consistent and reliable performance, enabling photographers to focus on their creativity and produce the results they desire, regardless of whether they are shooting in well-lit locations or challenging lighting circumstances.

Image Quality

The image quality produced by the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens is exceptional and may be described as having excellent sharpness, clarity, and color fidelity. The lens makes use of cutting-edge optics and lens components to reduce a variety of optical aberrations, such as chromatic aberration, distortion, and spherical aberration. As a consequence, the images produced by the lens have a high resolution and remarkable detail reproduction. Even when shooting with the aperture wide open at f/1.8, the lens creates photos that are crisp, with just a slight decrease in clarity as you move toward the frame’s corners.

Flare and ghosting are successfully reduced because of the lens coatings, notably the Nano Crystal Coating, which also contribute to the lens’s strong contrast and bright color reproduction. The lens also has a low level of distortion, which helps to ensure that straight lines may be shown accurately and that the subject’s essential characteristics are preserved. The Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens has excellent picture quality as a whole, making it a valuable piece of equipment for photographers who place a high value on picture quality and wish to take pictures that are truly breathtaking.

Teleconverter Compatibility

Because it is compatible with Nikon’s range of teleconverters, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens enables photographers to expand the focal length of the lens while keeping the exceptional image quality it produces. Photographers have the ability to effectively extend the focal length of their lens to 49mm or 70mm, respectively, by connecting a teleconverter to it. One example of such a teleconverter is the Nikon Z Teleconverter TC-1.4x or TC-2.0x. This versatility is especially beneficial for photographers whose work requires them to have a more extended reach, such as those who picture sports or animals.

The focusing capabilities of the lens are not compromised by the teleconverters, which also gives a high level of optical performance. As a result, photographers are able to produce images that are both crisp and detailed, even while shooting at a longer focal length. The Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens is compatible with teleconverters, which increases its adaptability and enables photographers to adapt to a variety of shooting settings and obtain the results they wish.

Comparison with Competitors

There is competition for the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens from other manufacturers that provide lenses with focal lengths and aperture combinations that are comparable. One of its primary rivals is the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM lens, which was developed specifically for mirrorless cameras that use Canon’s RF mount. Both lenses have a focal length and maximum aperture that are comparable to one another, which makes them suited for a broad variety of photographic styles.

On the other hand, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens has enhanced optical performance, as seen by crisper photos, improved edge-to-edge sharpness, and increased contrast. In addition, the Nikon lens has built-in image stabilization, which is a benefit while shooting in settings with low light or when utilizing slower shutter speeds.

The Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens boasts a more durable construction quality than its predecessor, as well as weather sealing, which enables it to be used for photography even in challenging environmental circumstances. In spite of the fact that the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM lens has a few advantages over its Nikon counterpart, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens provides greater performance and image quality overall.

Specifications

Mount TypeNikon Z Mount
Focal Length35mm
Maximum Aperturef/1.8
Minimum Aperturef/16
FormatFX
Maximum Angle of View (DX)44°
Maximum Angle of View (FX)63°
Maximum Reproduction Ratio0.19x
Lens Elements11
Lens Groups9
Diaphragm Blades9
Nano Crystal CoatYes
ED Glass Elements2
Aspherical Elements3
Super Integrated CoatingYes
AutofocusYes
AF ActuatorSTM (stepping motor)
Minimum Focus Distance0.82 ft. (0.25m)
Focus ModeAutofocus, Manual
Filter Size62mm
Accepts Filter TypeScrew-in
Approx. Dimensions (DxL)2.9 in. (73mm) x 3.4 in. (86mm)
Approx. Weight13.1 oz. (370g)
Lens TypePrime

Pros and Cons

Because of its many strengths, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens is regarded as one of the most coveted lenses available to photographers. Its maximum aperture of f/1.8 makes it possible to achieve both good performances in low light and creative control over the depth of field. The lens produces a picture that is of exceptional quality, characterized by its sharpness, clarity, and vivid colors. The in-camera image stabilization reduces the appearance of blur in handheld photography by counteracting the effects of camera shake. Because the focusing technology of the lens is quick, precise, and dependable, it is suited for use in both still photography and video recording.

Additionally, the lens is well-built and features weather sealing, which provides the lens with longevity as well as protection against dust and moisture. However, when compared to the prices of some of the lenses offered by its competitors on the market, this lens has a somewhat higher price. This may be considered a possible downside. Even while the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens delivers great performance and image quality, its premium pricing may be prohibitive for certain photographers who are concerned about staying within their financial means.

Price and Availability

The Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens comes at a premium price point, which is indicative of the high-quality build as well as the exceptional optical performance that it possesses. There is a possibility that the actual pricing will change based on the shop and the location. If you are looking for the most up-to-date pricing information, it is advised that you check with authorized Nikon dealers or reliable online sellers.

This is the case with any popular lens. Photographers that place emphasis on picture quality, performance, and dependability will find that the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens delivers outstanding value despite the high price at which it is sold. It is an investment that may significantly improve one’s photography, giving excellent results in a wide variety of photographic subgenres.

$846.95 13 used from $540.00 16 new from $846.95
in stock
Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S

Conclusion

The Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens is an excellent prime lens that excels in terms of performance, build quality, and picture quality, among other attributes. It is a vital tool for photographers who want to capture outstanding photographs with sharpness, clarity, and brilliant colors because of its variable focal length, fast aperture, and superior optics. These features make it possible. The focusing technology of the lens is quick and precise, which makes it suited for a variety of shooting conditions.

Additionally, the lens incorporates image stabilization, which compensates for camera shake and enables clearer handheld photos. Durability and protection are ensured for the lens by its high build quality, which includes weather sealing, even while shooting under challenging situations. Although it is sold at a premium price, the lens provides outstanding value for photographers who place a high priority on image quality and dependability. In general, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens is a high-quality optic that not only produces exceptional images but also elevates the level of photography that can be accomplished with mirrorless cameras from Nikon’s Z-series.

Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S FAQs

Q. Is the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens compatible with both full-frame and APS-C sensor cameras?
A. Yes, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens is designed for Nikon’s Z-mount mirrorless cameras, which include both full-frame and APS-C sensor models. However, when used with an APS-C sensor camera, the effective focal length will be equivalent to approximately 52.5mm due to the crop factor.
Q. Does the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens have image stabilization?
A. Yes, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens features built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, which provides up to 4 stops of image stabilization. This feature helps to minimize camera shake and allows for sharper handheld shots, especially in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds.
Q. Can I use filters with the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens?
A. Yes, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens has a filter thread size of 62mm, which allows you to attach various filters, such as UV filters, circular polarizers, or neutral density filters. It’s worth noting that using filters may slightly affect the overall image quality, so it’s advisable to use high-quality filters to maintain optimal image performance.
Q. Is the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens weather-sealed?
A. Yes, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens features a weather-sealed construction, providing protection against dust and moisture. This makes it suitable for shooting in various weather conditions, allowing you to capture images with peace of mind, even in challenging environments.
Q. Can I achieve a shallow depth of field and beautiful bokeh with the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens?
A. Yes, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 S lens has a wide maximum aperture of f/1.8, which allows for a shallow depth of field and beautiful background blur, also known as bokeh. This wide aperture enables you to isolate your subject and create a good separation between the sharp subject and the out-of-focus background, adding depth and visual interest to your images.

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