Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm F1.8G

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm F1.8G is a prime lens that has gained popularity among photographers using the Nikon F (DX) mount system. This lens is particularly favored for its versatility and excellent optical performance, making it a great choice for a variety of photography styles, including portraits, street photography, and everyday shooting.

Build and Design

The build quality of the Nikon 35mm F1.8G is solid, with a lightweight and compact design that makes it easy to carry around during long shooting sessions. The lens has a plastic construction, which helps to keep it lightweight, but some photographers prefer the heft of metal-bodied lenses. The lens features a rubberized focus ring that provides a comfortable grip while manually focusing, although the autofocus system is typically fast and precise, making manual focus less of a necessity.

Optical Performance

One of the standout features of the 35mm F1.8G is its sharpness. From wide open at f/1.8, the lens delivers impressive sharpness, especially in the center of the frame, with good performance across the aperture range. Bokeh is creamy and pleasant, thanks to its rounded diaphragm blades, which is advantageous for portraiture. However, at wider apertures, some corner softness can be noticeable, though stopping down to f/4 or f/5.6 largely mitigates this.

Low Light Performance

The fast f/1.8 aperture is a significant advantage when shooting in low-light conditions. This lens allows for quicker shutter speeds without sacrificing sensitivity, giving photographers more freedom to shoot handheld in dim environments. It also helps isolate subjects from the background due to the shallow depth of field it can achieve.

Versatility

With a focal length equivalent to 52.5mm on a full-frame camera, this lens strikes a good balance between wide and standard perspectives, making it suitable for various shooting situations. Whether you’re capturing landscapes, portraits, or street scenes, the 35mm focal length offers a natural view that feels comfortable in most situations.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus is quick and generally accurate, aided by the Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology that allows for stealthy focusing. While it performs exceptionally well for most subjects, fast-moving objects may require additional attention, as is common with many prime lenses at this price point. Occasionally, the lens may hunt for focus in low-light situations or when dealing with subjects with low contrast, but overall, it performs well.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent optical quality with impressive sharpness.
• Fast f/1.8 aperture for low-light photography.
• Compact and lightweight design.
• Good build quality with a user-friendly focus ring.
• Versatile focal length suitable for various genres.

Cons

• Some corner softness at wide apertures.
• Autofocus may struggle with fast-moving subjects.
• Plastic construction may not appeal to all photographers.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm F1.8G is an exceptional lens for Nikon F (DX) mount users, providing outstanding optical performance and versatility at an attractive price point. Its lightweight design and fast aperture make it a must-have for photographers seeking a reliable and high-quality prime lens. While there are minor drawbacks regarding build material and autofocus performance in specific conditions, the overall quality and functionality of this lens far outweigh these concerns. For anyone looking to elevate their photography game, this lens is a worthy investment.