Nikon AF Nikkor 35mm f/2D

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF Nikkor 35mm f/2D is a versatile prime lens that has earned a reputation among Nikon enthusiasts, particularly for those using the Nikon F mount. This lens is a solid choice for various photography styles, including street, portrait, and landscape photography, thanks to its natural perspective and relatively fast maximum aperture.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the AF Nikkor 35mm f/2D is robust yet lightweight, making it a great companion for both casual outings and extended shooting sessions. The lens features a compact design, weighing in at just under 300 grams, which makes it easy to carry around and handle. The exterior is made of high-quality plastics and features a metal lens mount, ensuring durability while staying lightweight. The focus and aperture rings are smooth and responsive, allowing for precise adjustments on the fly.

Optical Performance

Optically, the 35mm f/2D lens is equipped with a multi-coated glass that effectively reduces flare and ghosting, contributing to sharp images even in bright lighting conditions. The lens produces excellent center sharpness wide open at f/2, making it suitable for low-light scenarios. However, the corners might not be as sharp until you stop down to f/4 or f/5.6, which is something to consider if you are shooting landscapes or group photos where edge sharpness is crucial.

The lens also exhibits pleasing bokeh due to its 7-blade diaphragm, which contributes to a smooth transition between in-focus and out-of-focus areas. This quality makes it great for portrait photography, where you want the subject to stand out against a soft background.

Autofocus and Compatibility

The autofocus system on this lens is fast and quite accurate, thanks to its built-in Silent Wave Motor (SWM). However, it is worth noting that focus is not as silent as some of Nikon's newer lenses with advanced autofocus technologies. For photographers who prioritize quiet operation, this may be a slight drawback.

Additionally, since this lens is designed for the Nikon F mount, it is compatible with both full-frame and crop sensor cameras. On a DX-format camera, this lens acts like a 52.5mm equivalent, making it even more versatile for different types of photography.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Lightweight and compact design
• Good optical performance with sharpness at the center
• Nice bokeh due to a 7-blade diaphragm
• Fast and relatively accurate autofocus
• Versatile focal length suitable for various photography genres

Cons

• Corner sharpness could be lacking at wide-open aperture
• Autofocus can be less quiet than newer lenses

Verdict

The Nikon AF Nikkor 35mm f/2D is an outstanding lens that combines excellent build quality, good optical performance, and versatility. While it does have a few minor shortcomings regarding corner sharpness and autofocus noise, its strengths make it a worthy addition to any Nikon F mount user's kit. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced photographer, this lens can serve you well in a multitude of shooting situations.