One of the best features of Nikon cameras is the extended range of compatibility through their line of cameras and lenses. In most cases, even old Nikon lenses will work on the latest digital camera bodies without too much trouble and no modification necessary. Certain cameras will support lens functions, such as auto focus or computerized metering, where other cameras may not. The key to selecting Nikon lenses is determining which features to prioritize and matching those to the range of lenses available for your camera.
Instructions
1. Confirm that your camera is an F-mount camera. This will allow you access to nearly the entire range of Nikon lenses. Nikon made very few non F-mount cameras. The mounting system is standardized; most lenses will come under this heading.
2. Determine whether your camera has an auto focus motor on the camera body by checking the specifications. This feature means that lenses that do not have an auto focus motor will still be able to auto focus when used on your camera. If it does not have this feature, certain lenses may operate in manual focus mode only.
3. Review the selection of DX and regular lenses, and weigh the pros and cons of each type when used with your camera. It is possible to use both regular and DX lenses on any camera that accepts F mount lenses, but there may be small flaws or distortions. DX lenses are optimized for digital cameras with a sensor that is smaller than a piece of film where regular lenses are optimized to project an image onto a 35mm piece of film. Using DX lenses on a 35mm sized image media may cause some distortion; using non DX lenses on a small digital camera sensor may cause the image to be cropped.
4. Determine what focal length and aperture settings you need. If you are doing work outside of a static setting such as a studio, a zoom lens will allow you to change your focal length simply on the lens. If you are doing studio work, prime lenses with a single focal length can offer excellent options. Examine the aperture settings possible; if you work in low light settings frequently, lenses with wider apertures may be appropriate, but they will also be more expensive.
5. Review your price range. Nikon lenses come in a variety of prices, ranging from under $100 to several hundred dollars. Your price range may limit your choice of upper range lenses with features such as wide apertures and vibration reduction.
Tags: your camera, auto focus, Nikon lenses, focal length, lenses with, regular lenses, aperture settings