The Nikon 50mm 1.8D has been the compact, normal prime lens of choice for decades. This is one of the few items that you’ll find in both pro and amateur camera bags. It may not have the coveted 1.2 or 1.4 max aperture, but this all purpose lens holds it’s own in most lighting conditions without breaking the bank.
All Plastic Finish
SPECS:
6 Elements / 5 Groups
Aperture = f1.8 (7 Blades)
Filter Ø = 52mm
Min Focus = 0.45m
Weight = 152g
Length = 40mm
Side View on the Nikon EM
PROS:
This is a very versatile lens. Although it has its own, unique body design, this 50mm is a ‘D’ lens. This means that it will work great on both film and digital cameras. The few exceptions are on the consumer level digital cameras (i.e. D3000, D5000, D40, & D60) which do not have their own auto-focus drive mechanism. The 1.8D will still work however, but in manual focus mode only.
While you could attach a 52mm lens hood for blocking unwanted light, I have never found it necessary as the front element is recessed 15mm, providing a “built in” hood.
Focused at 0.45m
CONS:
While the Nikon 50 1.8D works well as a standard prime on any SLR, I have not enjoyed it on my manual film bodies (like the Nikon F3). It is fast and light, but the focus ring is narrow and all the way at the far end. Not only is the size cumbersome, but the focus action is very loose with little to no damping. It will definitely get the job done, but don’t expect a quality feel when set to manual.
Optically, there is not much to complain about. This lens is very fast for the price, but I would recommend staying off the 1.8 aperture setting. I have found shots to be a bit soft and try to keep the lens at 2.8 or more. Lenses are typically at their sharpest roughly 2 stops from their max aperture and this lens is no exception.
Aperture Ring Lock Switch for Auto Modes
BOTTOM LINE:
There’s a lot to love about this lens…it’s light, fast, compact, takes standard 52mm filters and only costs $132 new. As expected for an affordable lens, the build quality is not high end and would not do well in inclement weather. But keeping these limitations in mind, this 50mm delivers stunning results for amateurs and pros alike.
If you shoot often using ambient, indoor lighting, I would recommend stepping up to the 50mm 1.4 (D or G).
Accepts Affordable 52mm Filters
