Founded in 1917 as Nippon Kogaku, the company now known worldwide as Nikon has always enjoyed success based on the quality of its lenses. In addition to its own F-mount lenses, Nikon has in the past provided optics for medium format systems like Bronica, some of the original Canons, and extensively for the Japanese military. Their F series SLRs became a huge success with American journalists who prized their lenses and reliability, and Nikon has remained one of the most broadly respected camera brands in the world since.

Fun fact: 'Nikon' is not directly derived from a real word and is correctly pronounced differently in different regions. Depending on where you're from, Neekon, Nihkon, and Nykon are all equally valid pronunciations.

NIKON NIKKOR Z 600MM F/6.3 VR S

Nikon’s lightest 600mm super telephoto prime lens—ever.

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A NIKKOR S-Line prime unlike any before.

The NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena

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Performance to inspire.

Introducing the Nikon Z f.

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Full-Frame Cameras

Why do I want a full frame?

Why Full Frame?

Full frame cameras have a digital sensor the same size as a frame of 35mm film (24x36mm). These cameras often represent the highest models in various camera lines, and are a common choice for professionals and advanced hobbyists alike.

Some advantages of a full frame sensor

  • Larger surface area generally allows for more light collection per pixel, which allows for better dynamic range and better low light performance.
  • Being the same size as 35mm film cameras, lenses maintain their 'correct' field of view that generations of photographers are familiar with.
  • Larger sensor size results in shallower depth of field at a given aperture for the same field of view vs cameras with a smaller sensor.

Some disadvantages of a full frame sensor

  • Many full frame models are higher level, and cost more.
  • Full frame cameras are physically larger and weigh more than most crop sensor cameras.
  • Full frame cameras require full frame lenses, which are generally bigger, heavier, and more expensive than lenses for crop systems.

You might consider full frame if:

  • You enjoy shooting landscapes where you can easily bring a tripod.
  • You do much of your shooting after dark or in interiors with dimmer than standard office lighting.
  • You don't do mostly telephoto work.
  • You find yourself struggling to get enough subject/background separation at wider focal lengths.

Full-Frame Lenses

What lenses do I need?

About Nikon's Different Lens Families

Nikon has a long history of continuing to support its F-mount for SLR/DSLR cameras with as much interoperability as it can provide, which can lead to confusion when trying to determine which Nikon lenses will and won't work with your camera. Some common Nikon lens designations are:

Focus Designations:

AF

Nikon's older screw-drive autofocus type. These lenses need an AF motor built into the camera. Several higher end models still provide this. You can check your camera easily by looking for a small screw tab on the mount in the lower corner towards the grip.

AF-S

Currently the most widely compatible lenses Nikon makes. They have a built-in focus motor which lets them be used on all entry-level and pro model DSLRs alike.

AF-P

A newer type of lens with a built-in 'pulse' stepping motor, better for smooth video auto focus. These lenses mostly only work with newer Nikons as they require different autofocus algorithms to work correctly. Check your camera with Nikon before buying to see if it supports AF-P lenses.

Aperture Designations:

D

Older lenses designed in the film era which include a physical aperture ring. Usable on Nikon cameras still, but you'll need to check the AF designation to see if autofocus will work on your model.

G

G-type lenses do not have a physical aperture ring, but do still have mechanical aperture mechanism, and are currently the most widely supported lenses in the Nikon line-up. You can't use them on your old F film camera though, sorry.

E

Nikon's newest aperture type, E-type lenses feature an electromagnetically controlled variable aperture that's more responsive and accurate for continuous shooting situations. However, like the AF-P motor type you will need a newer Nikon body to be able to use these lens types. Check with Nikon to confirm compatability with your particular body.

Format Designations:

DX

The presence of a DX badge in the lens name and on the lens itself indicate that it is intended for use with Nikon's APS-C crop bodies. Many of their full-frame FX bodies will still support these lenses, but they will only do it in crop mode with a notable decrease in image resolution.

FX

Nikon does not indicate in the name or on the lens when a model is for full frame. If there is no 'DX' designation present, the lens is meant for full frame and will work on either FX or DX bodies.

Please see Nikon's guide on lens compatibility for more information, and for a complete table of which lens types are compatible with your body. Or, call us or ask our online chat if you aren't sure. We're happy to help.

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DSLR Crop Sensor

Why Nikon Crop Sensor?

Why should I get a crop sensor camera?

Crop format cameras are any camera designed to be able to use full frame lenses, but with a sensor size that is smaller than a frame of 35mm film. The end effect is that the image appears to be 'cropped in' from what the full frame would have recorded, which make lenses have a narrower field of view and greater depth of field than they would on a full frame sensor.

Some advantages of a crop sensor camera

  • A smaller sensor is cheaper to produce, and these cameras are often more affordable than a full frame model.
  • Support components for a smaller system can also be smaller, allowing the cameras to be greatly reduced in size and weight.
  • Crop sensor cameras can accept either full frame lenses (with a crop factor), or dedicated crop lenses, offering a greater range of choice between quality, weight, and size.
  • The narrower field of view means that telephoto lenses work like much longer lenses on a full frame sensor, making it cheaper and lighter to carry longer lenses.
  • The deeper depth of field makes it easier to get images where the entire subject or view is in focus without having to resort to smaller apertures.

Some disadvantages of a crop sensor camera

  • The smaller sensor area means in general the pixels collect less light, which leads to a small decrease in low light performance and dynamic range.
  • Many (but not all) crop sensor cameras are less robust or full-featured than full frame cameras.
  • All lenses will have a crop factor, making them appear longer than on a full frame.
  • The additional depth of field can make it difficult to get strong subject/background isolation at wider focal lengths.

You might consider a crop sensor camera if:

  • You are more budget conscious.
  • You prefer a lighter camera system.
  • You don't shoot much at night, or prefer using a flash inside.
  • You shoot sports or wildlife and need as much telephoto power as you can get.

Creative Lighting System

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Why Nikon Flashes?

Nikon's Creative Lighting System

Nikon's Creative Lighting System (CLS) is widely considered among the very best TTL lighting systems on the market. Offering accurate exposure and flexible ability to use lights in different groups, on- and off-camera, CLS is an invaluable tool for taking your photography to another level.

Sport Optics

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Why Nikon Optics?

Why Nikon Sport Optics?

Nikon's legendary optical excellence isn't limited to cameras, their same quality is found in their binoculars and spotting scopes. Especially perfect companions for birding and wildlife photographers.