Nikons lens mount hasnt changed in decades, but with modern optical technology improving so dramatically, can the oldies really compete with the new arrivals?
I've bought or borrowed a dozens of different Nikon lenses over the years, including some rather overrated (and over-priced) lenses, and indeed some underrated gems.
Rather than go into the specifics of every lens, I want to explore the subject of vintage lenses from a broader perspective.
Before even considering buying vintage Nikon lenses, you should consider some practical questions;
- Does your camera support screw driven lenses?
- Can you live slow, noisy auto-focus, or with no AF at all?
- What are you shooting and what is your budget?
- Are you prepared to buy a second-hand item?
Vintage lenses are better suited to some scenarios than others. Video shooters are most likely to get the best value from vintage lenses. HD video, and even 4K, is less demanding on resolution than most still photography applications. Not only this, but auto focus isn't important to most video shooters, and having physical aperture control is preferred by some.
So have optics really improved that dramatically?
Well, yes, for the most part. And it's not just Nikon who have upped their game. Sigma and Tamron are now both producing some insanely sharp prime lenses.
Even the Nikon 50mm 1.8G mops the floor with older Nikon 50mm primes, in terms of sheer resolution. Sharpness isn't everything of course, but the 50mm 1.8G is a great performer across the board, with 7 rounded blades giving creamy bokeh, and AF is fast, quiet and accurate. Sure, the older fifties are still nice sharp lenses, but unless you're on a very tight budget, (or a much bigger budget) there is very little reason for most Nikon shooters not to own that particular lens.
So are there bargains to be found?
Ebay might not be the best place to find Nikon vintage lens bargains. Prominent bloggers like Theoria Apophasis (aka The Angry Photographer) have efficiently documented the quality of most older Nikon lenses and brought their appeal to a very wide audience. If you're determined to find a bargain, better to use it as a price guide against local thrift stores and car boot sales, where you have a very realistic chance of striking gold.
Do not underestimate the value of modern, fast auto focus.
I cannot overstate this enough, even though there are many who love manual focusing, including Angry Photog, mentioned above. Regardless, my experience with older manual lenses, and even some AF-D lenses has often been one of frustration. For portraiture and travel, I like to work fast, and while slower auto focus might not mean missed shots, it slows me down, distracts and frustrates. I used a manual 85mm lens for a portrait shoot once, and would never do it again.
That said, there are various scenarios when fast AF is irrelevant, such as when shooting video, and when shooting macro. The old Nikon 105mm 2.8D "Micro" lens (pictured above) may not have VR or super fast AF, but it is a great example of an older lens that offers exquisite optics, and can be found at very reasonable prices. In fact, I prefer this lens to the modern Nikon 105mm VR version, which is heavier, bulkier, more expensive, and not discernibly sharper. Another great bargain is the older 180mm 2.8d, which is a telephoto prime that creates stunning portraits without having to fork out for a 70-200mm zoom.
So, aside from a handful of scenarios, and a couple of uniquely great value lenses, I personally would not recommend vintage Nikon lenses to most people. If you insist on it though, at the very least, do your research. There are often different versions of similar lenses, so you could be caught out if you're not careful. Here is a good place to start. Don't worry, he's not actually that angry. Just don't mention Sigma!
Blonde Girl Photo by me. Nikon logo and product shots © Nikon USA
Welcome back bruv.
AY! Good to be back! Went through bad stuff but on the up now. Be in touch soon dude.
Ah sorry to hear it. Check me on the chat when you're ready.
I love using old gear, being patient and methodical setting everything up and tweaking all the settings/focus etc, but as you mentioned fast autofocus can be a lifesaver! It just depends on the subjects you're shooting and how much time or chances you have to get the shot.
I use both old and new lenses, and old autofocus lenses are a great deal and are plenty usable. I will say that if you don't have a lens motor in your camera body then it's not an option and your stuck with lenses that have the built in motors.
I still use a Nikon D200 with all the original lenses. I have to admit though it's easier to pull out my phone. I don't miss carrying all the heavy gear around, but somehow the images I take now aren't the same. After reading your post I think I'll pull out the old Nikon again. Thanks
Sound advices worth reading.
Just be careful. You should credit your images or you can get flagged by @Steemcleaners. This image is popular on Tineye. Good luck. http://aa-cambodia.com/product/micro-nikkor-105mm-f2-8/
I credited the shot to its original source, Nikon USA. Something tells me Nikon wouldn't be in a hurry to contest a product shot. The dodgy site you mention there is using shots from different sources, such as Ken Rockwell, and not even of the same lens.
The fact that you copied the words I used elsewhere verbatim, tells me you are attempting a personal dig at me.
In reference to my comment here:
.. I was giving the guy genuine advice. https://steemit.com/history/@pukacok/baliem-valley-cultural-festival
If you have something you want to discuss, please hit me up on Steemit chat.