Nikon PC Nikkor 19mm F4E ED

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Overview

The Nikon PC Nikkor 19mm F4E ED is a standout choice for photographers looking to explore perspective control and architecture photography with the Nikon F (DX) mount. This lens is specialized for those who want to take their imagery to the next level, offering tilt and shift capabilities that allow for creative distortion correction and unique framing options.

One of the most distinguishing features of the 19mm F4E ED lens is its impressive wide-angle perspective paired with perspective control options. This can be particularly beneficial for landscape and architectural photographers who need to avoid converging lines, enabling perfectly aligned structures and pleasing compositions. The lens is constructed with advanced optics, including extra-low dispersion glass, which effectively reduces chromatic aberration and enhances overall image clarity.

The build quality is exceptional, with a robust and weather-sealed design that offers durability in challenging shooting conditions. The smooth tilt and shift mechanisms allow for precise control, which can greatly enhance your creativity on the field. Additionally, the lens provides excellent sharpness across the frame, even at wide apertures, making it an outstanding performer for detailed imagery.

However, the lens isn’t without its drawbacks. The price point can be quite steep for amateur photographers or those just getting into perspective control techniques. Furthermore, while the lens is sharp, it does present some barrel distortion and vignetting at wide open apertures, which may require correction in post-processing. The fixed aperture of f/4 also means that low-light performance is somewhat limited compared to faster lenses.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Excellent image quality with advanced optics and minimal distortion.
Effective tilt and shift capabilities for creative control.
Great build quality with weather-sealing.
Sharpness maintained across the frame.

Cons

Higher price point may deter casual users.
Some barrel distortion and vignetting at wide apertures.
Fixed aperture of f/4 limits low-light performance.

Verdict

In summary, the Nikon PC Nikkor 19mm F4E ED is an exceptional lens for those who prioritize perspective control and image quality. While it might be better suited for professionals or dedicated enthusiasts, its capabilities cannot be overlooked. If you often work in architectural photography or landscape compositions where control over distortion is key, this lens could be a fantastic addition to your toolkit. Just be prepared for the higher investment and the occasional need to correct for some optical imperfections in post-processing.

Technical Specifications

19mm

min focal length

19mm

max focal length

max f (min zoom)

max f (max zoom)

n/a

Filter diameter

25cm

min focus distance

f32

min. aperture

885g

Weight

Elements

Groups

124mm

Length

89mm

Diameter

Which cameras does the Nikon PC Nikkor 19mm F4E ED fit?

The Nikon PC Nikkor 19mm F4E ED is a full-frame lens for Nikon F-Mount cameras. On full-frame bodies it uses the whole sensor; on APS-C Nikon F-Mount cameras its field of view equals 29 mm in full-frame terms.

Nikon F-Mount cameras

Full frame:: Nikon D6, Nikon D780, Nikon D850, Nikon D5, Nikon D810A, Nikon D4S, Nikon D810, Nikon D750, Nikon Df, Nikon D610, Nikon D4, Nikon D800, Nikon D800E, Nikon D600, Nikon D3S, Nikon D3X, Nikon D700
APS-C:: Nikon D3500, Nikon D7500, Nikon D500, Nikon D3400, Nikon D5600, Nikon D5500, Nikon D7200, Nikon D3300, Nikon D7100, Nikon D5300, Nikon D3200, Nikon D5200, Nikon D5100, Nikon D7000, Nikon D3100, Nikon D300S, Nikon D5000, Nikon D3000, Nikon D90, Nikon D60

With the Nikon FTZ II / FTZ the lens can also be used on Nikon Z (DX/FX) cameras.