Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24mm f/1.4G ED

Nikon F (DX/FX)

Review

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24mm f/1.4G ED is a prime lens that has garnered significant attention from both amateur and professional photographers alike. Known for its vibrant optics and remarkable build quality, this lens promises to be a trustworthy companion for capturing everything from sweeping landscapes to detailed portraits.

Build Quality and Design

Right out of the box, the lens feels solid and well-constructed. The Nikkor 24mm f/1.4G features a robust aluminum and magnesium body, making it both durable and lightweight, which is essential for photographers on the go. The 77mm filter thread allows for a variety of filters, while the weather-sealing protects against moisture and dust, a feature that outdoor photographers will surely appreciate. The lens is slightly larger than other prime lenses in its class, but the trade-off is a comfortable grip and user-friendly handling.

Optical Performance

This lens excels in terms of optical performance. Its f/1.4 maximum aperture provides excellent low-light capabilities and allows for beautiful depth-of-field effects. Images taken at wide apertures exhibit sharpness and clarity, even when shot wide open. The lens features ED (extra-low dispersion) glass elements, which help minimize chromatic aberration and enhance color fidelity. Distortion is minimal, and vignetting is well-controlled, though it may be slightly noticeable at f/1.4. However, if you stop down to f/2.8, any vignetting will largely disappear, making this lens suitable for a variety of shooting situations.

Autofocus Performance

Equipped with Nikon's Silent Wave Motor (SWM), the autofocus performance is fast, quiet, and reliable. It locks onto subjects quickly, which is great for chasing fleeting moments, whether in portraits or dynamic scenes. The manual focus override is smooth and responsive, allowing for fine adjustments when necessary. However, in extreme low-light conditions, the autofocus can occasionally struggle, which is something to keep in mind for night or poorly-lit environments.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality and weather-sealing.
• Fast f/1.4 aperture for low-light shooting and shallow depth of field.
• Minimal distortion and well-controlled vignetting.
• Fast and quiet autofocus performance.
• Sharpness even at wide apertures.

Cons

• Slightly larger and heavier than some other prime lenses.
• Autofocus can occasionally struggle in extremely low-light conditions.
• Premium price point, which might not be justifiable for all users.

Verdict

Overall, the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24mm f/1.4G ED is an outstanding lens that delivers on many fronts. It is versatile enough for landscapes, environmental portraits, and street photography, making it a worthy addition to any Nikon F (DX) photographer's kit. While it comes with a premium price tag, the optical quality, build robustness, and performance make it an excellent investment for those looking to elevate their photography. If you are in the market for a top-tier wide-angle prime lens, the Nikkor 24mm f/1.4G won’t disappoint.