Review of 50mm F/1.8D AF Nikkor Lens

Today we'll review a lens that has become a sort of "cult classic" amongst Nikon lovers, the 50mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor. For this review, the Nikkor lens is fitted on a Nikon D70s digital camera.

First, some basic things to know: this 50mm lens is called a prime lens. This is because it has a fixed focal length of 50mm. In plain English, this lens does not zoom. A maximum aperture of f/1.8 means a larger light-utilizing area, a faster shutter speed and a narrower depth-of-field, although this lens has an aperture range of f/1.8-22.

The 50mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor lens has 7 diaphragm blades, a minimum focus distance of 1.5 feet and weighs in at a pleasant 5.5 ounces. The filter size is 52mm.

This Nikkor lens does not have an internal auto focus (AF) motor so it will rely on the cameras slotted drive screw. It's important to note that the Nikon D40 digital camera does not have a slotted drive screw, which renders AF functionality useless to that specific model. Of course, this Nikkor lens can also operate as a manual focus lens.

I've found barely any barrel distortion with this lens, which is pretty typical for a fixed lens. Vignetting (blackened corners in the image) has also not been an problem.

There is an issue that may turn some potential users off, but I think they'd certainly be in the minority. The 50mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor lens tends to have a "cheapy" feel, being made out of plastic. It is quite a small lens but I don't think this is a hindrance. The optics on this Nikkor lens is an outstanding performer providing clear pictures free of the above mentioned barrel distortions and most chromatic aberrations (especially at stopped down settings).

What would you use this Nikkor lens for? It makes a gorgeous portrait lens, be it of people and animals, plants, or anything you would like to have a shallow depth-of-field on. This lens produces very nice bokeh while the focused area has a very satisfying sharpness. Not too sharp, not too soft.

A big reason this lens is so wildly popular is the price tag. Shop around and you'll see what I mean. While the outside may tell you the lens is cheap, the optics inside will prove that isn't the case.

The 50mm f/1.8D Nikkor lens is responsive, fast, and efficient. Buy a macro coupler and you can get in ridiculously close for some amazing macro shots. I've had it on my Nikon D70s digital camera since day one and it stays on quite a bit of the time, producing both very artistic photos and charming candid snapshots.

Overall this is a fabulous Nikon lens to have. It's size, quality, durability and price make it a real steal, and for the photographer that wants a nice arsenal of lenses without breaking the bank, a must have.