This April, Nikon announced the D7500—its 4K crop digital SLR camera—and now the company has introduced new glass for filmmakers and photographers alike. While it seems like we're always talking about EF lenses, Nikon has great optical performance for the price point. So let's take a look at their new offerings, all of which are aspherical lenses. 

AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR


Nikon NIKKOR 10-20mmNikon NIKKOR 10-20mm

The AF-P DX NIKKOR 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR is an ultra-wide-angle DX-format zoom lens with optics capable of delivering stellar video and photos. Better yet, its lightweight and compact form sells for only $309. It features Nikon's "P" series pulse motor, a near-silent autofocus stepping motor ideal for recording video with smooth focus that's said to be quieter than previous drive systems. Focus can be achieved in both manual or auto modes. 

It also touts Nikon's Vibration Reduction (VR) image stabilization technology to keep handheld videos sharp as well as helping during low-light conditions. Three Aspherical (AS) lens elements eliminate naturally occurring distortion, and Nikon's Super Integrated Coating (SIC) cuts through ghosting and lens flare in backlit or cross-lit situations. A 7-blade aperture design provides backgrounds with a beautifully soft, round blurring effect. 

Nikon NIKKOR 10-20mmImage taken with Nikon NIKKOR 10-20mm

Tech Specs: 

  • Focal Length Range: 10-20mm
  • Maximum Aperture: f/ 4.5
  • Format: DX
  • VR (Vibration Reduction) Image Stabilization
  • Approx. Dimensions 3.0" x 2.8" (77mm x 73mm) 
  • Approx. Weight: 8.2 oz. (230g)

AF-S FISHEYE NIKKOR 8-15mm f/3.5-4.5E ED

Nikon NIKKOR Fisheye 8-15mmNikon NIKKOR Fisheye 8-15mm

The AF-S Fisheye NIKKOR is Nikon's first fisheye zoom lens. With a focal length of 8 - 15mm it has full frame coverage with a maximum aperture of f/3.5-4.5. You can capture traditional macro-style images up to 0.5 feet from your subject as well as epic 180° circular images with the lens. The glass does have electronic aperture so depending on the mount or camera you could be stuck with a wide open aperture setting. 

The updates to the lens include three ED glass and two Aspherical (AS) lens elements to minimize chromatic aberrations and color fringing while a Nano Crystal Coat (N) cuts down ghosting and flare. It also features internal focusing so you don't have to worry about a change in size. The lens barrel is dust and moisture resistant and features a protective fluorine coat which lets liquid roll right off the lens. The price is set at $1,249.95. 

What is a Fisheye Lens? Definition and Examples for FilmmakersNikon fisheye look

Tech Specs:

  • Focal Length Range: 8 - 15mm
  • Maximum Aperture: f/ 3.5-4.5
  • Format: FX/35mm
  • Nano Crystal Coat
  • AF-S (Silent Wave Motor)
  • Approx. Dimensions 3.0" x  3.2" (77.5mm x 83 mm)
  • Approx. Weight: 17.2 oz. (485 g)

AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.4E ED

Nikon NIKKOR 28mmNikon NIKKOR 28mm

Like the fisheye, the AF-S NIKKOR 28mm is the latest addition to the Gold Ring Series of prime lenses. With a maximum aperture of f/1.4, it provides beautiful bokeh and solid low light performance for filmmakers. Capable of providing edge-to-edge clarity with little to no distortion or aberrations, the lens features an electronic aperture, two ED glass and three Aspherical (AS) lens elements, a Nano Crystal Coat, and a Silent Wave Motor to enable high-speed autofocusing that's accurate and quiet. The aspherical lens also features a rear focusing system where only the rear lens group moves during focusing, keeping the physical shape of the lens intact.  

The asking price is $1,999.95. 

Nikon NIKKOR 28mmImage taken with Nikon NIKKOR 28mm

Tech Specs: 

  • Focal Length: 28mm
  • Maximum Aperture: f/ 1.4
  • Format: FX/35mm
  • Nano Crystal Coat
  • AF-S (Silent Wave Motor)
  • Approx. Dimensions: 3.2" x 3.9" (83mm x 100.5mm)
  • Approx. Weight 22.8 oz. (645g)