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Nikon D800, AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED, 1/50, F2.8, ISO200, Photo by M.Ito

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED

[Zoom] Wide-zoom | Standard-zoom | Tele-zoom | High-zoom
[Fixed-focal] Wide angle | Standard | Telephoto | Macro

This 35mm lens is the latest addition to the F1.8 FX-format lens series including the 28mm, 50mm, and 85mm. It fills the gap between the ultra high-end AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G and the long-seller Ai AF NIKKOR 35mm f/2D. Plus, it's as compact as the f/2D and reasonably priced.

( Photography : M.Ito / Text : Naz )

Nikon D800, AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED, 1/100, F2.2, ISO100, Photo by M.Ito

The 3D quality of the focused student is wonderful. While it's adequately contrasty, the shadow isn't painted in black and the highlight area still has tonal information. And, I believe this rich gradation contributes to the 3D quality.

Nikon D800, AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED, 1/1250, F1.8, ISO100, Photo by M.Ito

Nikon D800, AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED, 1/5000, F1.8, ISO100, Photo by M.Ito

Even though it's a wide angle lens, the large diameter shallows the depth of field significantly. As you see, the front and back bokeh isn't quirky but beautiful. And, you can see the smooth increase of bokeh by checking the way the two tire marks dissolve on each rut. A 35mm lens is ideal for snapshooting, but it's also great for portraits.

Nikon D800, AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED, 1/30, F2.8, ISO100, Photo by M.Ito

Nikon D800, AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED, 1/200, F1.8, ISO100, Photo by M.Ito

With the F1.8 speed, you can also shoot in the dark situations and night. I hear this lens is designed to minimize sagittal coma flare just like the AF-S NIKKOR 58mm F1.4G. Capturing point light sources just as they are is very difficult and the point light sources around the left bottom of this image is deformed. However, considering it was shot wide open, I'd say its overall performance is just excellent. And, let me tell you that the branches of the trees on the island look exceptionally sharp on the original size image.


Nikon D800, AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED, 1/30, F2, ISO640, Photo by M.Ito

Nikon D800, AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED, 1/50, F4, ISO100, Photo by M.Ito

It draws the wet texture so minutely. The color reproduction is quite neutral being neither too vivid nor too quiet. This means it yields more room for post adjustment. The minimum focus distance is 0.25m and you can get as close as few centimeters from the front element, making it perfect for table photography as well.

Nikon D800, AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED, 1/40, F4.5, ISO100, Photo by M.Ito

Distortion becomes more obvious as you look up. But, it's not quirky and within the level you correct with software afterwards.

Nikon D800, AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED, 1/2500, F2.8, ISO100, Photo by M.Ito


This lens becomes your best friend and it will broaden your photography.

While there're excellent standard zoom lenses, you may wonder if you really need a prime lens whose focal length is covered by the standard zoom lens. But, this 35mm prime lens forces you to step closer or further, making you feel more determined. Plus, the sharp and clear rendition empowers your expression.

The engineering plastic body is robustly constructed and the ultrasonic-motored AF is fast and quiet. The focus ring as wide as two fingers facilitates focusing both in vertical and horizontal positions. And, switching between AF and MF is very smooth. On a DX format camera, the angle of view becomes equivalent to 52.5mm in 35mm format just like a standard lens. And, the beginners who start with this lens and a DX format camera can continue to use this lens even after they upgrade their camera to a FX format camera.

Because of the image quality, the construction, and the operability, I cannot help but feel the kindness of Nikon and I strongly recommend this lens without hesitation.