Nikon AF-S 50mm F1.8 G SE (Special Edition) Review
General information
This is a prime lens manufactured by Nikon and the lens was released 2013.
The lens belongs to the category
standard prime lenses, a normal lens where you do not have the possibility to zoom in and out.
Product description from Nikon
At launch 2013 Nikon wrote this regarding Nikon AF-S 50mm F1.8 G SE (Special Edition):
"Classically styled, lightweight and fast f/1.8 FX-format prime lens.
With its updated classic exterior design and feel, outstanding NIKKOR optics and advanced Nikon lens technologies, the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition is the perfect match for the Nikon Df and anyone who appreciates the feel of a classic lens. Its fast f/1.8 maximum aperture renders beautifully blurred backgrounds and maximizes low-light performance, and its 50mm normal perspective is ideal for everyday shooting. And despite its classic styling, the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition is a fully modern NIKKOR lens with Nikonīs advanced technologies, like Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for ultra-fast, nearly silent autofocusing with seamless manual override. Well suited for travel and everyday applications, the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition will be your go-to lens for great shots.
Brilliance in any light
Fast f/1.8 aperture for superior low-light performance
The lightweight, compact AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition is a great travel companion, especially when you need to freeze fast action or if a bright sunny day turns overcast. Its fast f/1.8 maximum aperture makes framing and focusing easier, and allows for high shutter speeds and full exposures under dim lighting conditions.
Beautiful background blur
Natural depth of field and attractive bokeh
When shooting wide open at f/1.8, the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition renders beautifully blurred backgrounds (bokeh). Make a tack-sharp foreground subject stand out against a softly blurred background, a capability especially well suited for portraits. The lensī 50mm focal length (75mm on DX-format cameras) approximates the angle of view of our eyes, perfect for creating natural perspective in your photographs.
Outstanding performance
Advanced NIKKOR optics and Nikon lens technologies
The AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition is a remarkable blend of classic exterior styling and modern optics and lens technologies. Its focus ring features the easy to grip knurling/hatching from classic manual focus lenses, while its autofocus system uses Nikonīs innovative Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for ultra-fast, near silent precision focusing. SWM also allows for seamless manual focus override when fine adjustments are desired. The AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition will give you years of brilliant performances.
Overview
Special edition of the popular 50mm f/1.8 NIKKOR lens. Boasts a compact and lightweight body with a retro-look and feel.
With a fast maximum aperture of f/1.8, this is a great lens for low-light situations or when shallow depth of field is required. An aspherical lens element reduces aberrations and increases resolution, and Nikons exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) delivers whisper-quiet operation.
The retro design pays homage to vintage NIKKOR lenses and perfectly complements the looks of the Nikon Df.
Key features
50mm FX-format standard lens (75mm when used with a Nikon DX-format SLR).
Retro design inspired by classic NIKKOR lenses.
Fast maximum aperture of f/1.8. Ideal for low-light situations or portraits with smooth bokeh.
Aspherical lens element: Reduces aberrations and increases resolution.
SWM (Silent Wave Motor) for fast, quiet autofocus.
Two focus modes: M/A (manual-priority autofocus) and M (manual focus).
Remarkably lightweight and compact body.
Weather-sealed metal lens mount."
Compatibility, autofocus and focal length
This lens is constructed to fit all models of Nikon cameras, regardless of camera model or type of sensor.
The ability to use autofocus is available for all cameras.
The lens has a focal length of 50 mm. Depending on which camera the lens is used, the experienced and perceived focal length will be different. Please visit the list of compatible cameras below, it will provide the equivalent focal length you get on each camera.
- See compatible cameras and perceived/equivalent focal length
- See a full camera compatibility chart for Nikon AF-S 50mm F1.8 G SE (Special Edition)
- Read more about focal length and your field of view
- Read more on the cameras impact on the perceived focal length
Lens brightness and image stabilizer
The lens brightness and aperture value is f/1,8.
This aperture value indicates that the lens is extremely bright. This will make it so much easier shooting in darker environments where you do not want or can use flash lighting, for example in churches or at different sports venues.
The lens lacks image stabilization, which otherwise os good for avoiding the blur that can occur when using slow shutter speeds. Since the lens is bright, with good aperture value, the lack of image stabilization might not be that big of a deal, although a image stabilizer is always an advantage to have.
Filter and Lens Hood
The lens has a traditional filter thread on the front and its measuring 58 mm which also the filter you will use must have. If you use for example an UV filter can be a cheap insurance against scratches and dust.
If you buy this lens it will come with a lens hood, whose model name is "HB-47".
Images of Nikon AF-S 50mm F1.8 G SE (Special Edition)
In order to see larger product images of the lens, click the link below.
Things to consider before buying
Below you will find some summarized points and facts that can be considered as the 'pros and cons' of this lens. These are based entirely on the facts and values that are accessible through the lens specification, so we highly recommend that you also read the reported reviews available (see tab 'Reviews'); this in order to get a more complete view of the lens and its capabilities. Reviewer opinions reflect the lens, its use and its optical performance in a more accurate way, but any way - here a few different points to consider before buying this lens.
- The lens brightness, f/1,8
- Works on all sensor types
- Has a built-in autofocus motor
- A lens hood is included
- The lens is sealed against dust and moisture
- Light weight (190 gr)
Our Review Ratings
Time to grade Nikon AF-S 50mm F1.8 G SE (Special Edition).
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| Overall rating | 3 of 5 |
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