Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D User's Manual

Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D manual cover

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Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D Specification

The Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D is a versatile and lightweight prime lens renowned for its exceptional optical performance and affordability. With a focal length of 50mm, it is ideal for portraits, landscapes, and everyday photography, offering a natural perspective similar to the human eye on FX-format cameras. Its fast f/1.8 maximum aperture ensures excellent low-light performance and enables photographers to achieve beautiful background blur, or bokeh, ideal for isolating subjects. The lens construction is simple yet effective, comprising six elements in five groups, delivering sharp and high-contrast images with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration. It features a Super Integrated Coating that enhances light transmission efficiency and reduces lens flare and ghosting.

The lens is equipped with an aperture control ring, providing manual control for precise exposure settings. It is compatible with Nikon's full range of DSLRs, although autofocus is supported only on bodies with an in-built motor. On entry-level DSLRs without a built-in autofocus motor, manual focus is necessary. The lens is compact and lightweight, weighing approximately 155 grams and measuring about 39mm in length, making it highly portable for travel and everyday use. It has a minimum focusing distance of 0.45 meters, allowing for relatively close-up shots. The lens accepts 52mm filters, offering flexibility for creative effects. Overall, the Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D is celebrated for its simplicity, reliability, and outstanding image quality, making it a popular choice among photographers of all levels.

Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D F.A.Q.

How do I achieve sharp focus with the Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D?

To achieve sharp focus, ensure your camera's autofocus settings are correctly configured. Use single-point AF for precise focusing and consider using manual focus for critical sharpness, especially in low light conditions.

What are common issues with autofocus on this lens and how can I troubleshoot them?

Common autofocus issues might include hunting in low light. To troubleshoot, ensure the lens contacts are clean and that the camera firmware is up-to-date. Switching to manual focus can be a workaround in challenging lighting.

How can I maintain the Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D for longevity?

Regularly clean the lens elements and contacts with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution. Store the lens in a dry, dust-free environment, and use a UV filter to protect the front element.

Can I use this lens with a Nikon camera that does not have a built-in autofocus motor?

The Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D requires a camera body with a built-in autofocus motor. On entry-level DSLRs without this feature, you will need to use manual focus.

What is the best aperture setting for portraits using this lens?

For portraits, an aperture between f/2.8 and f/4 is ideal for achieving a soft background blur while maintaining enough depth of field to keep the subject sharp.

How do I avoid lens flare when using this lens?

To avoid lens flare, use a lens hood to block stray light and avoid shooting directly into strong light sources. Position yourself so the light source is at an angle.

What should I do if the lens gets stuck on the camera body?

If the lens gets stuck, ensure the camera and lens are powered off. Gently try to rotate the lens while pressing the lens release button. If it remains stuck, consult a professional technician.

Is this lens suitable for video recording?

While this lens can be used for video, the autofocus may be noisy and slow. Manual focus is recommended for smoother, quieter video recording.

How can I correct chromatic aberration when using this lens?

Chromatic aberration can be corrected in post-processing using software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop, which offer tools specifically for this purpose.

What is the optimal way to clean the lens elements?

Use a blower to remove dust, then gently clean with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution. Avoid using excessive pressure to prevent scratching the glass.